Fubara Withdraws From APC Governorship Primaries, Cites Peace, Unity Amid Rivers Political Calm Push

Fubara Withdraws From APC Governorship Primaries, Cites Peace, Unity Amid Rivers Political Calm Push Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has formally withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, citing the need to preserve peace, unity, and stability in the state, in a move widely interpreted as an attempt to end prolonged political tensions in Rivers politics.

The development, confirmed in a statement issued by the governor, comes amid ongoing political realignments within the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections and growing calls for reconciliation among rival political blocs in the state. Fubara said his withdrawal followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, political associates, and stakeholders across Rivers State.

He explained that the decision was difficult but necessary, stressing that leadership sometimes requires personal sacrifice in the interest of collective stability. According to him, the peace, unity, and stability of Rivers State must take priority over individual ambition, especially at a time when political tensions had threatened governance and cohesion. He also reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and pledged to support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate. In his statement, the governor emphasized that political ambition must sometimes give way to the broader public good. He maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness or defeat, but rather as a deliberate act of statesmanship aimed at promoting reconciliation within the party and the state.

Fubara also expressed gratitude to party leaders and supporters who had stood by him during the buildup to the primaries, acknowledging their sacrifices and expectations. Political observers say the withdrawal is significant in the context of the long-standing political crisis in Rivers State, which has involved power struggles, party divisions, and tensions between key political actors in recent years. Analysts believe the decision could help reduce intra-party friction within the APC and open a new chapter of political stability in the state. The move is also being viewed as part of broader reconciliation efforts aimed at unifying stakeholders ahead of future elections. Despite stepping down from the primaries, Fubara reiterated that he remains committed to serving out his tenure as governor and continuing development projects across the state.

He assured residents that governance activities would not be affected by his political decision, urging citizens to remain calm and united. Party sources indicate that the APC leadership views the development as a stabilizing factor in its internal politics in Rivers State, as attention now shifts to selecting a consensus candidate for the governorship race. The party is expected to intensify consultations with stakeholders in the coming weeks to ensure a smoother primary process and reduce internal divisions.