Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State says he withdrew from the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primaries, because of the need to preserve peace, stability and unity in the state amid the prolonged political crisis that has unsettled Rivers politics for months.
He announced his withdrawal in a personally signed statement released by the Rivers State Government on Wednesday night, bringing an end to weeks of speculation over his political future within the ruling party.
He said the decision was sequel to “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, friends and political associates, stressing that leadership sometimes requires personal sacrifice for the greater good.
“Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest,” Fubara stated.
He pledged his loyalty to the APC and promised to support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.
“I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC gubernatorial 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.
Fubara also appealed to his supporters to remain calm and committed to the party despite the disappointment the development may trigger among loyalists who had mobilised heavily for his re-election bid.
“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,” the statement read.
He hinted at the intense political pressure surrounding his decision but refrained from giving details.
“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,” he stated.
“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 also thanked the APC leadership and President Bola Tinubu for their support and encouragement throughout the political process.
“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 added.
The governor insisted that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness, fear or surrender, maintaining that the move was made purely in the interest of peace and stability in Rivers State.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming Rivers State gubernatorial 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,” he declared.
