By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has withdrawn from Thursday’s governorship primaries of the All Progressives Congress, APC, ending days of suspense over his political prospects in the contest.
Fubara announced the decision in a personally signed statement dated May 20, 2026, titled “My Decision To Withdraw From The Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries.”
The governor explained that the decision followed deep reflection and extensive consultations with his family, friends and associates.
According to him, “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 gubernatorial 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 said.
Fubara said his withdrawal was not an act of weakness or surrender, but a sacrifice made in the larger interest of peace, stability and unity in Rivers State.
“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people.
“Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest,” he stated.
The governor thanked his supporters for standing by him, acknowledging that many of them may feel disappointed, angry or hurt by his decision.
He said, “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. 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,” he said.
Fubara also explained that his silence in recent days was deliberate and strategic, saying it was guided by the higher interest of the state and its people.
Waxing philosophical, the Governor said, “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 added that he had faced “immense pressures and difficult choices,” but insisted that his love for Rivers State remained greater than personal ambition.
Fubara thanked the APC for the platform and support extended to him, while also expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and encouragement.
“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 said.
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