Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has explained why he withdrew from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in the state, saying the decision was taken in the interest of peace, stability and unity in Rivers State.
In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, Fubara said he reached the decision after extensive consultations and pledged to support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
“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 governorship primaries. I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party,” he said.
The governor stressed that Rivers State’s interests must come before personal ambitions, noting that the state was bigger than any individual.
According to him, preserving peace, stability and unity at this critical period remains paramount.
Fubara also expressed gratitude to his supporters for their sacrifices and unwavering loyalty throughout his political journey, assuring them that their trust had not been misplaced.
“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.
“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.”
The governor said his silence amid mounting political pressure in recent months was intentional and driven by the need to protect the state’s interests.
“My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people,” he said.
Drawing on a local proverb, Fubara said not every challenge or experience should be publicly discussed, adding that restraint is sometimes necessary to safeguard peace and stability.
“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.”
Fubara thanked the APC for the opportunity and support extended to him throughout the political process and also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement.
“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 described the APC as a collective home for members and supporters and urged party faithful to remain united and committed to the party’s ideals.
“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.”
The governor further clarified that his withdrawal from the governorship race should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness, fear or surrender.
According to him, the move was a sacrifice made to ensure peace and unity in Rivers State.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming Rivers State governorship 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.”
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Rivers State until the end of his tenure and expressed confidence in the state’s future.
