Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, pledging full support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
In a press statement dated May 20, 2026, titled “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” Fubara said the choice followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family and associates. He emphasized that leadership requires sacrifice, stating, “Rivers State is bigger than any individual,” and that peace, stability, and unity must take precedence over personal ambition.
The Governor expressed profound gratitude to his supporters, acknowledging their time, resources, and loyalty. “I understand the disappointment, the anger, and the pain many of you may feel,” he wrote, assuring them their trust was not in vain. He also thanked the APC and President Bola Tinubu for their support, reaffirming the party as “our collective home.”
Fubara clarified that his decision was not born of weakness or surrender, but of conviction. “I stepped aside… so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity,” he stated, adding that he remains committed to serving the people until the end of his tenure.
Background Context
Governor Fubara’s political trajectory has been marked by significant turbulence. Elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, he later fell out with his former political mentor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, triggering a prolonged crisis in Rivers State. In late 2025, Fubara defected to the ruling APC, a move that reshaped political alignments in the South-South region.
His arrival in the APC was followed by efforts to consolidate his position, including clearance by the party’s screening committee for the 2027 governorship race. However, internal party dynamics, stakeholder pressures, and broader reconciliation efforts reportedly influenced his latest decision.
Political analysts suggest Fubara’s withdrawal may be aimed at de-escalating factional tensions within the Rivers APC and strengthening party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. By endorsing the eventual APC candidate, he positions himself as a unifying figure focused on state stability.
Reactions from party stakeholders, opposition groups, and civil society are expected in the coming hours. For now, the APC Rivers State chapter is preparing to proceed with its primary schedule, with attention turning to potential aspirants and the path toward a consolidated ticket.
As developments unfold, the focus remains on whether this move will foster lasting peace in Rivers State or signal further realignments in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
