PORT HARCOURT — Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primary race.

The decision was made public through a personally signed statement, coming just hours before the party's scheduled internal voting. Fubara stated that his exit followed extensive discussions with family members, close political associates, and key regional stakeholders.

The governor framed his withdrawal as a necessary step to maintain peace and political stability within the state, emphasizing that collective interests must always supersede personal ambitions.

"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," Fubara noted in his official address.

Hidden Friction and Structural Pressure

While the formal statement heavily prioritized peace and reconciliation, the governor hinted at significant behind-the-scenes friction regarding the organization of the primary contest.

"As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace," Fubara remarked. "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."

The withdrawal follows reports from internal party screening committees, which indicated that several key legislative aspirants allied with Governor Fubara were disqualified from participating in the state and national assembly primaries.

Conversely, prominent political figures associated with his regional rival, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, were cleared to contest. This structural shift effectively altered the internal delegate alignment within the state chapter prior to the primary vote.

Moving Forward within the Party Framework

Fubara strongly rejected any interpretation of his exit as a sign of political defeat or capitulation. He clarified that the step back was a strategic choice intended to prevent deeper polarization across local constituencies.

Despite the abrupt exit from the ballot, the governor expressed his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the APC for their administrative oversight and guidance during the pre-election cycle.

He urged his remaining grassroots networks and party faithful to stay focused, avoid disruptive protests, and work toward a successful general election outcome. Fubara also reaffirmed his complete commitment to managing the administrative affairs of Rivers State until the formal conclusion of his current executive tenure.

The governor steps aside just ahead of the vote, pointing to internal party decisions and the need to preserve regional stability