Siminalayi Fubara has officially announced his withdrawal from the gubernatorial primaries of the All Progressives Congress ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Rivers State.
In a press statement issued on May 20, 2026, the Rivers State governor said the decision followed extensive consultations with his family, political associates, friends, and supporters.
According to Fubara, leadership requires sacrifice, adding that the peace, stability, and unity of Rivers State must take precedence over personal ambition.
“There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people. Rivers State is bigger than any individual,” the governor stated.
Fubara expressed gratitude to his supporters for their loyalty, prayers, and sacrifices throughout his political journey, acknowledging the disappointment many may feel following his withdrawal from the race.
The governor explained that his silence in recent weeks had been deliberate and strategic, stressing that some decisions are best handled with restraint in the interest of maintaining peace and stability in the state.
“Not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he said, hinting at underlying political pressures surrounding the contest.
Despite stepping aside from the primaries, Fubara maintained 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 declared.
The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the expiration of his tenure.
Fubara further thanked the APC leadership for the opportunity and support given to him during the process. He also appreciated Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and support.
He urged members and supporters of the APC to remain united and committed to the party as preparations continue for future political engagements in the state.
Political observers say the governor’s withdrawal could significantly reshape the political dynamics ahead of the Rivers governorship election, especially amid ongoing political realignments within the state.
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