Rivers State APC Primaries: Gov Fubara Withdraws From Race

Shock Exit Ahead of Major Vote

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially pulled out of the All Progressives Congress governorship primary election. The sudden decision was made public on Wednesday night through a statement signed by the governor himself. The announcement came just hours before party members were set to vote on Thursday, May 21.

The governor explained that his choice came after a long period of deep thought and talks with his close political partners. He noted that stepping away from the contest was a hard choice, but it was necessary to protect the local population from political chaos. He promised to finish out his current time in office while working for the good of the public.

Fubara also made it clear that he will support the person who eventually wins the party ticket. He thanked the top leaders of the party for giving him a chance to participate. He also shared deep appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for showing him great support during this tough political journey.

Choosing Peace Over Personal Ambition

The political atmosphere in Rivers State has been very tense for many months. Fubara stated that leadership requires making big sacrifices, and personal goals must sometimes take a back seat. He explained that the stability of the area is far more valuable than any individual political position.

The governor wanted to make sure the public understood his true reasons for walking away. He stated clearly that he did not step aside out of weakness, fear, or a sense of surrender. Instead, he chose to make a sacrifice so that the entire state could move forward in peace and harmony.

He also dropped a small hint about the heavy outside pressure he faced during the primary race. He used an old local proverb, stating that not everything a hunter sees in the forest should be spoken about in the busy marketplace. He added that some things are best left unsaid to keep the peace.

Internal Feuds Shape Coming Election

This shocking exit is the latest chapter in a bitter power struggle for control of the ruling party. Fubara entered the party late last year after leaving his former political home, the People’s Democratic Party. Since then, he has been locked in a fierce battle against his former boss and current federal minister, Nyesom Wike.

The crisis reached a breaking point just last week when the party screening group took a harsh step. They disqualified 32 local lawmakers who supported Fubara from running in the coming election. At the same time, the group cleared all the politicians who are loyal to Wike.

Many local supporters expressed deep sadness over the governor’s exit. Fubara acknowledged their pain but explained that his quiet actions over the last few weeks were part of a bigger plan. With the governor now completely out of the race, the path is wide open for the rival faction to control the political future of the state.