Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in the state, pledging full support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, Fubara said the decision followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family, friends and political associates.
“After deep reflection and extensive consultations with my family, friends, and associates, I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC governorship primaries. I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party,” he stated.
The governor stressed that the peace, stability and unity of Rivers State must take precedence over personal ambition, noting that the state’s interest remains paramount.
Fubara expressed gratitude to his supporters for their sacrifices, loyalty and unwavering belief in his leadership throughout his political journey.
“To my supporters who stood firmly with me throughout this journey, who gave their time, resources, prayers and unwavering hope, I offer my deepest gratitude,” he said.
“I understand the disappointment, the anger and the pain many of you may feel. Much has indeed been invested and much sacrificed along the way. But please know that your loyalty and trust were never in vain.”
Addressing public reactions to his silence in recent months, the governor said it was a deliberate and strategic decision guided by the broader interest of Rivers State and its people.
“My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people,” he added.
Quoting a local proverb, Fubara explained that restraint is sometimes necessary to preserve peace and stability.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace. Some truths are best borne quietly, not out of fear, but out of wisdom and restraint for the sake of peace and a greater purpose,” he said.
“It is enough to say that I have faced immense pressures and difficult choices, but my love for Rivers State remains greater than anything else.”
The governor also thanked the APC for the opportunity and support extended to him during the political process, while expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and backing.
“I sincerely thank our great party, the All Progressives Congress, for the platform and support extended to me throughout this process,” he said.
“I also express my profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support and encouragement.”
Fubara urged party members and supporters to remain united and committed to building a stronger APC.
“The APC remains our collective home, and I urge all party faithful and supporters to remain steadfast and committed as we continue to build a stronger and more united future together,” he added.
He further clarified that his withdrawal from the Rivers State governorship race should not be interpreted as an act of weakness, fear or surrender, but as a sacrifice made in the interest of peace and unity.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming Rivers State governorship election 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 said.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the end of his tenure.
