Fubara Withdraws From APC Governorship Race, Pledges Support For Party Candidate

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary ahead of the 2027 elections, citing the need for peace, unity, and stability in the state.

Fubara announced his decision in a personally signed statement issued on Wednesday, stating that the move followed extensive consultations with family members, political associates, and close supporters.

According to the governor, although the decision was difficult, the interest of Rivers State must come above personal ambition. He assured party faithful that he would fully support whoever emerges as the APC candidate in the governorship race.

“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. 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 stated.

The governor also expressed gratitude to his supporters for their loyalty, prayers, and sacrifices throughout the political process, acknowledging that many may feel disappointed by his withdrawal.

Fubara noted that his silence in recent weeks was deliberate and strategic, insisting that his decision should not be interpreted as an act of weakness or surrender.

“I stepped aside not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity,” he added.

He further thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC leadership for their support and encouragement during the political process.

The development comes amid ongoing political realignments in Rivers State following the prolonged political crisis between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, over the control of the state’s political structure.

The crisis, which led to the suspension of Fubara and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly after the declaration of a state of emergency in 2025, significantly altered the political landscape in the oil-rich state.

Meanwhile, APC chieftain, Tonye Cole, had earlier withdrawn from the governorship race, also citing the need for party unity.

Political observers believe Fubara’s withdrawal may signal fresh alignments within the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also easing tensions within the party in Rivers State.