By Our Correspondent
National News – Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was cleared by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship screening committee before he voluntarily withdrew from the party’s primary election, according to APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda.
The clarification follows widespread speculation that the governor was disqualified after his screening appearance in Abuja, where he was seen without addressing journalists and appeared subdued.
Yilwatda stated on Channels Television’s Politics Today that Fubara passed the screening stage and was awaiting the APC governorship primary before stepping down voluntarily.
He added that claims of disqualification were false and emphasized that the decision to withdraw was personal, aimed at promoting peace and unity in Rivers State amid political tensions and internal party realignments.
Political speculation had suggested that the withdrawal might be linked to influence from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, a prominent political actor in Rivers State.
However, the APC chairman dismissed such claims, noting that Wike is not a member of the APC and has no role in the party’s internal selection process or candidate determination.
Fubara had announced his withdrawal on May 20, stating it was in the interest of peace and unity in the state.
His initial screening appearance had sparked speculation due to his silence before journalists and the political tensions surrounding the APC governorship race in Rivers State.
This development clarifies the circumstances surrounding his exit from the APC primary process and reinforces the party’s position that its screening exercise was not the reason for his withdrawal.
Analysts say the clarification may help reduce misinformation and stabilize political narratives ahead of future elections in Rivers State.
The APC screening exercise for the Rivers State governorship primary took place ahead of the party’s nomination process in Abuja, Nigeria, where aspirants were evaluated based on eligibility and internal guidelines.
The controversy has continued to generate debate within political circles, highlighting tensions in Rivers State politics and the evolving dynamics between key political stakeholders today.
