By Our Correspondent

National News – Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections, citing peace, unity and stability as the reason for his decision.

The announcement came late Wednesday after weeks of political tension within the Rivers APC and growing speculation over the governor’s political future.

Fubara said he stepped aside after consultations with family, associates and supporters, adding that Rivers State’s interest must come before personal ambition.

The governor explained that leadership sometimes requires sacrifice and insisted his withdrawal should not be seen as weakness or surrender.

He pledged support for whoever emerges as the APC candidate and thanked party members and supporters for standing by him throughout the political crisis.

Fubara also appreciated Bola Tinubu for his support during the turbulent period in Rivers politics.

The development followed months of conflict between Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over control of the state’s political structure.

The crisis led to failed reconciliation efforts, an emergency rule declaration in 2025 and repeated impeachment threats against the governor.

Several lawmakers and political allies loyal to Fubara were reportedly disqualified from APC primary contests, deepening divisions within the party.

Before Fubara’s withdrawal, other aspirants including Tonye Cole and Dakorinama George-Kelly had also stepped down, leaving Kingsley Chinda as the sole governorship aspirant in the Rivers APC primary.

Cole said his decision followed consultations with APC leaders aimed at preserving party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Across several states including Kwara, Adamawa and Plateau, APC governorship primaries have sparked intense political battles as aspirants resist consensus arrangements backed by governors and influential stakeholders.