Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Fubara said the decision followed consultations with his family, friends, and associates.
“I have decided to withdraw from the APC governorship primaries. I will support whoever emerges as the candidate of our party,” he said.
Fubara stated that the peace and stability of Rivers State should come before individual interests. He thanked his supporters for their backing and said his recent silence on the matter was deliberate.
“My silence was guided by the interest of the state and its people,” he said. Quoting a local proverb, he added, “Not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace.”
The governor also thanked the APC for the platform given to him and acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s support. He said he would continue to serve as governor until the end of his tenure.
Background
Fubara defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC earlier this year.
His administration has been involved in a political dispute with his predecessor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, over control of the party structure in Rivers State.
In March 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the House of Assembly. Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed sole administrator.
In June 2025, Tinubu lifted the emergency rule after a meeting with Fubara, Wike, and lawmakers. Fubara, his deputy, and the lawmakers subsequently resumed office.
