By Caleb Ishaya
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has stepped down from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries scheduled for Thursday.
In a personally signed statement titled “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” issued on Wednesday night, he announced his withdrawal and pledged support for whoever eventually emerges as the party’s candidate.
Fubara explained that his decision followed deep reflection and wide consultations with family, friends, and close associates. He described the move as a difficult but necessary sacrifice, emphasizing that the interest of Rivers State must come before personal ambition.
According to him, leadership sometimes requires putting aside individual aspirations for the sake of peace, unity, and stability in the state. He added that Rivers State is greater than any single person and urged supporters to understand his decision in that context.
He expressed appreciation to his supporters for their loyalty, time, prayers, and sacrifices, acknowledging their possible disappointment but insisting their support was never wasted. He also noted that his earlier silence was intentional and guided by what he called the higher interest of the state.
Fubara further thanked the APC for providing him a platform, as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and support.
He urged party members to remain united and committed to building a stronger party and a more stable future.
He concluded by clarifying that his withdrawal was not out of fear or weakness but a deliberate act of conviction and sacrifice, reiterating his commitment to serving Rivers State until the end of his tenure.
