Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries ahead of the 2027 Rivers State governorship election.
Fubara made the announcement in a statement released to journalists in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, citing the need to prioritise peace, stability and unity in the state.
The governor said the decision came after extensive consultations with family members, associates and political allies.
“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people,” Fubara stated.
He maintained that the interest of Rivers State outweighed any individual aspiration, especially during a sensitive political period.
Fubara assured party members that he would support whoever emerged as the APC flagbearer, describing the ruling party as “our collective home”.
He thanked his supporters for their commitment and sacrifices throughout the political process and acknowledged the disappointment that his withdrawal might cause among loyalists.
The governor noted that his silence in recent weeks had been intentional and strategic, adding that some realities were best handled with restraint in order to preserve peace.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he said.
Fubara also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and support during the period.
He urged APC supporters in Rivers State to remain steadfast and committed to the party’s collective vision for the future.
The governor insisted that stepping aside from the race should not be viewed as an act of weakness or surrender, but as a decision guided by conviction and sacrifice for the progress of Rivers State.
He reiterated his commitment to continue serving the people of the state until the completion of his tenure in office.
