By Our Reporter
Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries ahead of the state governorship election.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the governor said the decision followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family, friends, and political associates.
Fubara described the move as “difficult but necessary,” stressing that the peace, stability, and unity of Rivers State were more important than personal ambition.
According to him, leadership sometimes requires sacrifice and the willingness to place the collective interest above individual aspirations.
“I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC gubernatorial primaries,” he stated, adding that he remains committed to supporting whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
The governor thanked his supporters for their loyalty, prayers, and sacrifices throughout the political process, acknowledging that many may feel disappointed by his decision.
He noted that his silence in recent weeks had been “deliberate and strategic,” guided by what he described as the higher interest of the state.
Fubara also hinted at political pressures behind his decision, saying he had faced “immense pressures and difficult choices,” but chose restraint and sacrifice for the sake of peace.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he said, suggesting that some issues were better left unsaid in the interest of stability.
The governor expressed appreciation to the APC for providing him a political platform and also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and encouragement.
He urged party faithful to remain united and committed to the APC, describing the party as their “collective home.”
Fubara maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness or surrender, insisting that the decision was based on “conviction and sacrifice” aimed at ensuring peace and unity in Rivers State.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of the state until the end of his tenure.