Fubara Withdraws From APC Governorship Primary
Fubara’s withdrawal from the Rivers APC governorship primary is being viewed as one of the biggest political developments in the state ahead of the 2027 elections, especially because of the intense power struggle involving the governor and his former political mentor, Nyesom Wike.
In his statement announcing the withdrawal, Fubara said he took the decision after “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, friends and political associates. He maintained that the peace and stability of Rivers State were more important than his personal ambition.
The governor also hinted that powerful political forces and behind-the-scenes pressures influenced his decision. According to him, he had faced “immense pressures and difficult choices,” though he declined to reveal specific details.
Political observers believe the withdrawal was largely connected to the growing dominance of Wike-backed politicians within the Rivers APC structure. In recent weeks, many lawmakers and aspirants loyal to Fubara were reportedly disqualified from APC assembly primaries, while candidates linked to Wike were cleared to contest.
Before the withdrawal, there had already been uncertainty surrounding Fubara’s political future inside the APC. Reports indicated that he appeared visibly uncomfortable after his screening by the APC governorship panel in Abuja, sparking speculation that he might not have received full backing from influential party leaders.
The Rivers governor insisted that stepping down should not be interpreted as fear or defeat.
“I stepped aside not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice,” he declared.
Fubara also thanked Bola Tinubu for what he described as support and encouragement throughout the political process and reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC.
The withdrawal has now dramatically altered the Rivers APC governorship race. Shortly after Fubara stepped down, former APC governorship candidate Tonye Cole and aspirant Alabo George-Kelly also withdrew from the contest, both citing party unity and consultations with APC stakeholders.
Their exits have fueled strong speculation that former House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, who is believed to enjoy support from the Wike camp, could emerge as the consensus APC governorship candidate in Rivers State.
The development is the latest chapter in the prolonged political crisis between Fubara and Wike, which began shortly after Fubara assumed office in 2023. The conflict led to impeachment threats, division within the Rivers State House of Assembly, court battles, and eventually the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Tinubu in 2025.
Although Fubara has withdrawn from the primary, he said he remains committed to serving Rivers people until the end of his tenure and urged his supporters to remain calm and loyal to the APC
