In a development that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of the Niger Delta and the entire federation, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has officially announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primary elections. The unexpected announcement was made through a detailed press statement personally signed by the Governor on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. This sudden strategic move has entirely altered the political calculus within the oil-rich state as political parties prepare for the upcoming Rivers State gubernatorial election.
Governor Fubara revealed that his decision to step down from the internal party contest was the product of deep personal reflection and extensive, high-level consultations with his immediate family, close friends, and trusted political associates. Despite his withdrawal from the race, the Governor maintained a conciliatory and party-centric posture, declaring his firm and unalloyed commitment to support whoever eventually emerges as the official flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress for the state’s top job.
Reflecting on the philosophical nature of governance and political power, Governor Fubara emphasized that true leadership is fundamentally defined by sacrifice. He stated that there comes a defining moment in the life of any leader when personal political ambition must willingly yield to the overarching interests and greater good of the populace. According to him, Rivers State remains significantly bigger than the ambition of any single individual. He maintained that at this critical juncture in the state’s political evolution, the preservation of long-term peace, socio-political stability, and structural unity across the multi-ethnic state must take absolute precedence over any personal interest or political aspiration.
Addressing his large base of passionate supporters, volunteers, and campaign organizations who have stood firmly behind his administration and his re-election aspirations, Governor Fubara expressed his deepest and most profound gratitude. He acknowledged the substantial investments of time, financial resources, spiritual prayers, and unwavering hope that his followers had channeled into the campaign organization over the past months. The Governor noted that he fully understands the deep sense of disappointment, anger, and emotional pain that many of his loyalists may feel upon hearing the news of his withdrawal.
In a bid to reassure his political base, Fubara maintained that their loyalty, dedication, and trust were never in vain. He also broke his silence regarding his recent political posture, explaining that his relative quietness and tactical withdrawal from the media space over the preceding period was entirely deliberate and highly strategic. He clarified that his actions were guided at every step by a desire to protect the higher interest of Rivers State and its citizens from unnecessary political friction and administrative distraction.
Using a traditional philosophical metaphor to convey the complex internal realities behind his decision, the Governor quoted an ancient African proverb, stating that not everything a hunter witnesses during his expedition in the forest is spoken of when he returns to the public marketplace. He hinted at deeper, unexpressed political undercurrents, noting that certain complex truths are best borne quietly and with dignity. He emphasized that this approach was adopted not out of fear or intimidation, but out of political wisdom, emotional restraint, and a desire to preserve a greater societal purpose. He admitted that he had faced immense political pressures and highly difficult choices in the days leading up to the decision, but asserted that his love for the progress of Rivers State remains far greater than any external pressure.
The Governor used the official statement to express his sincere appreciation to the leadership and ranks of the All Progressives Congress for providing him with a robust platform and offering valuable support throughout his political journey. Furthermore, Governor Fubara extended his profound gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, thanking the nation's leader for his continuous support, presidential encouragement, and statesmanship throughout the period of political consultations.
Reaffirming his commitment to the ruling party, Fubara described the APC as a collective political home for all progressive elements in the state. He strongly urged all party faithful, grassroots mobilizers, and structural stakeholders to remain steadfast, disciplined, and thoroughly committed to the ideals of the party as they work collectively toward building a stronger, more united, and resilient future for the state chapter.
To prevent any misinterpretation of his political maneuver by opposition elements, Governor Fubara explicitly clarified the motives behind his actions. He stated categorically that his decision to step aside from participating in the upcoming gubernatorial contest should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness, political fear, or a total surrender to opposing political factions. Instead, he maintained that it was an act born out of pure ideological conviction and personal sacrifice, aimed entirely at ensuring that Rivers State continues to march forward in an atmosphere of peace and communal unity.
Concluding his address, Sir Siminalayi Fubara assured the populace that his withdrawal from the upcoming election would not affect his current governance responsibilities. He pledged his continued focus, energy, and total dedication to serving the good people of Rivers State and executing impactful developmental projects until the very last day of his current executive term as Governor.
