| Rivers gov says peace, stability of state greater than personal interest
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries scheduled to hold today, Thursday, 21 May 2026.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, the governor said he would support whoever emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.
Fubara, in the statement, explained that his decision followed deep reflection and wide consultations.
“Fellow Rivers people, 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,” he said.
He added that his decision was guided by a sense of duty and the need to prioritise collective interest over personal ambition.
“I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party,” the statement continued.
“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.”
Addressing his supporters, the governor expressed appreciation for their loyalty and sacrifices throughout his political journey.
“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,” he said.
“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 also described his silence in recent weeks as intentional and strategic.
“My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people.”
Using a traditional analogy, Fubara added: “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. It is enough to say that I have faced immense pressures and difficult choices, but my love for Rivers State remains greater than anything else.”
The governor thanked the APC for the platform and also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support.
“I sincerely thank our great party, the All Progressives Congress, for the platform and support extended to me throughout this process. I also express my profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support and encouragement.”
He urged party members to remain united as the primaries proceed.
“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.”
Clarifying his position, he insisted his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming Rivers State gubernatorial election not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity, and I remain committed to serving the good people of Rivers State till the end of my term.”
