Siminalayi Fubara has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary election in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general elections, deepening the political intrigue surrounding the APC contest in the oil-rich state.
Governor Fubara announced his withdrawal in a personally signed statement on Wednesday, saying the decision followed extensive consultations with his family, friends and political associates.
The Rivers governor stated that although the decision was difficult, he remained committed to the unity and success of the APC and would fully support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.
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 governorship primaries, Fubara stated.
I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party
Fubara’s withdrawal comes amid rising political tension and internal power struggles within the Rivers APC ahead of the governorship primaries.
The governor had been widely considered one of the major contenders in the race alongside other influential political figures in the state.
His exit from the contest is expected to significantly reshape the dynamics of the APC governorship primary and may influence political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
The latest development follows a series of political realignments and controversies within the Rivers APC, including the withdrawal of former governorship candidate Tonye Cole from the race earlier on Wednesday.
Political observers believe the wave of withdrawals reflects ongoing negotiations and internal strategies within the APC leadership as the party attempts to manage competing interests in Rivers State.
The political situation in Rivers has remained tense following the prolonged rivalry involving supporters of Governor Fubara and allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Fubara’s decision is expected to trigger reactions from party members, political stakeholders and supporters across Rivers State, especially as the APC prepares for its governorship primaries.
Analysts say the governor’s withdrawal could open the door for fresh political alliances and possible consensus arrangements within the party.
Despite stepping down from the race, Fubara reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and called for unity among party members ahead of the 2027 general elections.
