Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary, saying his decision was taken to protect the peace and stability of the state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night, the governor said he stepped aside after consultations with family members, political associates and loyal supporters.
Fubara described the decision as painful but necessary, noting that the interest of Rivers people must come before personal ambition.
He said leadership sometimes demands sacrifice, adding that he would rather allow peace to reign than deepen the political tension already rocking the state.
The governor thanked his supporters for standing by him throughout the political process, acknowledging their prayers, loyalty and commitment despite the challenges along the way.
He also appealed to them to remain calm and focused, insisting that his withdrawal should not be seen as fear or defeat.
According to him, the decision was made out of conviction and his desire to see Rivers move forward in unity.
Fubara further pledged to continue serving the people of the state until the end of his tenure.
The latest development is coming amid the prolonged political battle between the governor and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Only last week, both Fubara and Kingsley Chinda were cleared by the APC screening committee ahead of Friday’s governorship primary.
However, cracks within the party became more visible after several lawmakers and political allies loyal to Fubara were reportedly disqualified from the state assembly primaries, while aspirants linked to Wike secured clearance.
The political face-off between both camps has continued to dominate the political landscape in Rivers State, with earlier impeachment threats against the governor worsening the crisis.
Wike had openly opposed Fubara’s re-election bid, accusing the governor of violating a peace agreement brokered by President Bola Tinubu.
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