Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, ending weeks of speculation over his participation in the party’s internal contest ahead of the next election cycle.
Fubara announced his decision in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying his withdrawal was guided by the need to protect peace, stability and democratic order in Rivers State. He noted that although consultations and political engagements had continued in recent weeks, he would no longer seek the APC ticket.
According to the governor, the decision was reached after discussions with political associates, stakeholders and supporters across the state. He urged his loyalists to remain calm and continue supporting his administration’s development agenda.
While Fubara did not directly disclose the reasons behind his withdrawal, sources within the party linked the move to ongoing political tensions and disagreements among key APC leaders in Rivers State.
The development is expected to reshape the political landscape in the oil-rich state, where alignments and defections have intensified ahead of the governorship race.
Party officials acknowledged receiving notice of the governor’s withdrawal but maintained that the APC primary process would continue as scheduled. Some party leaders described the decision as unexpected, while others said it could open the door for fresh negotiations and political realignments within the state.
Fubara’s political future has remained the subject of intense public attention following his strained relationship with key political figures in Rivers State. Analysts believe his withdrawal from the APC contest may signal a broader strategic recalculation ahead of the general elections.
Supporters of the governor have continued to express confidence in his leadership, insisting that his political influence in the state remains strong despite the latest development.
The Rivers State political scene has witnessed heightened activity in recent months, with several camps positioning themselves for control ahead of the next electoral cycle.
