Fubara Withdraws from Rivers APC Governorship Primary Ahead of 2027 Election

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary ahead of the 2027 election.

Fubara announced his decision in a personally signed statement released on Wednesday. He said he would support whoever emerges as the APC candidate in Rivers State.

The governor said he made the decision after consultations with his family, friends, and political associates. He described the move as difficult but necessary for peace and unity in the state.

Why Fubara Stepped Down

Fubara said his withdrawal was not a sign of fear or weakness. Instead, he framed it as a sacrifice for Rivers State.

According to him, leadership sometimes requires personal ambition to give way to a larger public interest. He said Rivers State needed peace, stability, and unity at this point.

His decision comes as political realignments continue in Rivers ahead of the 2027 general election. The state has remained one of Nigeria’s most-watched political battlegrounds since the crisis between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, deepened.

Fubara Thanks Supporters and Tinubu

Fubara thanked his supporters for standing by him during the process. He admitted that many of them may feel disappointed, angry, or hurt by his decision.

He also thanked President Bola Tinubu and the APC leadership for their support and encouragement.

The governor urged APC members in Rivers State to remain united. He described the party as their political home and called for loyalty to whoever wins the ticket.

A Political Move with Bigger Meaning

Fubara’s withdrawal may reduce immediate tension within the Rivers APC. It could also open the way for a consensus candidate or a stronger internal alignment before 2027.

But the move also raises fresh questions.

Who will control the APC structure in Rivers? Will Fubara’s supporters accept the new arrangement? And how will this affect the wider contest between rival political blocs in the state?

These questions matter because Rivers is not an ordinary battleground. It is one of Nigeria’s most economically important states. Its politics often carries national weight.

The Crisis Behind the Decision

Fubara’s political journey has been shaped by his fallout with Wike.

He rose under Wike’s administration and later became Rivers governor in 2023. Their relationship later broke down over control of the state’s political structure, appointments, and the direction of governance.

The crisis affected the Rivers State House of Assembly and triggered several court battles. It also drew national attention because of its impact on governance in the oil-rich state.

In March 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. Fubara, his deputy, and lawmakers were suspended for six months. Retired naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas later served as sole administrator during that period.

Fubara later returned to the office after political negotiations.

Expert View

Political analysts may see Fubara’s withdrawal as a tactical retreat rather than a full exit from the power game.

The decision allows him to avoid another open confrontation inside the APC. It also helps him present himself as a leader who prioritises peace over personal ambition.

However, the move does not end Rivers politics. It only changes the battlefield.

If Fubara can keep his supporters calm, he may retain influence within the party. But if his base feels abandoned, the APC may face fresh internal cracks before 2027.

What This Means for Rivers APC

Fubara’s withdrawal gives the APC a chance to manage its internal contest with less public drama.

Still, the party must handle the next phase carefully. A poorly managed primary could deepen old divisions. A transparent process could strengthen the party before the 2027 election.

For now, Fubara has stepped back from the race. But his influence, his supporters, and the unresolved Rivers power struggle will still shape what happens next.

FAQ

Why did Fubara withdraw from the Rivers APC governorship primary?

Fubara said he withdrew after consultations with his family, friends, and political associates. He said peace, stability, and unity in Rivers State should come before personal ambition.

Did Fubara leave the APC?

No. He said he would support whoever emerges as the APC governorship candidate in Rivers State.

Is Fubara’s withdrawal linked to the Rivers political crisis?

The decision comes amid ongoing political realignments in Rivers State. The state has faced a long political crisis involving Fubara, Nyesom Wike’s camp, and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

What happens next?

The APC will continue its governorship primary process. Fubara has asked his supporters and party members to remain united behind the eventual candidate.

Why is Rivers State important in Nigerian politics?

Rivers is one of Nigeria’s key oil-producing states. Its political direction often affects national power calculations, party strategy, and economic interests.