Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries, citing the overriding need for peace and stability in the state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, Fubara said the decision followed deep reflection and wide consultations with his family, friends, and associates.
“I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC gubernatorial primaries,” the governor declared. “I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party.”
Fubara stressed that leadership demands sacrifice, adding that personal ambition must give way to the greater interest of the state.
“Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest,” he said.
The governor expressed gratitude to his supporters who invested time, resources, and hope in his aspiration, acknowledging their possible disappointment.
He explained that his prolonged silence was deliberate and guided by higher interests of the state.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” Fubara noted. “Some truths are best borne quietly out of wisdom and restraint for the sake of peace and a greater purpose.”
He commended the APC for the platform provided during the process and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and encouragement. The governor urged party members to remain united and committed to the party’s future.
Fubara made it clear that his withdrawal was not borne out of weakness or fear but out of conviction and sacrifice for the progress of Rivers State.
He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people till the end of his tenure as governor.
The development comes amid ongoing political realignments in the state as parties prepare for the next gubernatorial election.
