Governor Siminalayi Fubara's withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Rivers State has sparked fresh political tension and uncertainty ahead of the 2027 elections. Fubara announced his decision late Wednesday, May 20, stating that he was stepping aside in the interest of peace, stability, and unity in Rivers State.
Fubara's Statement on Withdrawal
In a statement, the governor described leadership as “about sacrifice,” noting that personal ambition must give way to the greater good of the state. “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,” he said.
Fubara also appealed to his supporters to remain calm despite their disappointment over his withdrawal from the race. “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,” he stated.
Background of the Primary Race
Before the primary, four aspirants had shown interest in contesting the APC governorship ticket. They included Fubara, Tonye Cole, former Commissioner for Works Dr. Dax George Kelly, and Hon. Kingsley Chinda. While Fubara, Cole, and Kelly are from the Kalabari ethnic bloc, Chinda emerged from the Ikwerre axis. Chinda later emerged as the sole aspirant after the other contenders stepped down.
Sources said Fubara met with close political associates on Tuesday night, where he reportedly informed them of his decision not to participate in the primary. His name was also absent from the list of aspirants cleared by the APC screening committee.
Political Dynamics and Wike's Influence
Political observers say the governor’s withdrawal may have been influenced by the growing dominance of allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, within the APC structure in Rivers State. Fubara’s political challenges began months after he assumed office in 2023, following a prolonged power struggle with Wike. The crisis led to repeated impeachment attempts against the governor and deep divisions within the state political structure. Although peace moves were initiated at different times, the rift between both camps persisted.
Fubara later defected to the APC in December 2025, a move many analysts interpreted as an attempt to secure political survival and ease tensions with the Wike camp. However, despite joining the ruling party, the governor was never formally received by the national leadership of the APC, while his relationship with the Rivers APC executive led by Chief Tony Okocha reportedly remained strained.
Of the 23 local government chairmen in Rivers State, 22 are believed to be loyal to Wike. Several loyalists of the governor were also disqualified from contesting National Assembly and state assembly seats during the APC screening process. Among those affected was former deputy governor and serving senator, Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, who was reportedly denied clearance to seek re-election for the Rivers West Senatorial District seat. Political analysts believe the developments weakened Fubara’s influence within the APC and reduced his chances of securing the party’s governorship ticket.
Reactions and Future Speculations
Reactions have continued to trail the governor’s withdrawal. Former President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, said Fubara needed wider consultations before taking further political decisions. “If Fubara picks the form of another party, he may risk impeachment. He needs to consult widely and seek people’s opinion on the best way to go,” Okaba said.
Also reacting, elder statesman and PANDEF chieftain, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, said Rivers people must rise to defend the political future of the state.
Speculations are now mounting that Fubara may align with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 elections. The speculation intensified after reports emerged that Blessing Fubara, believed to be related to the governor, obtained the NDC governorship nomination form. Political observers also point to a recent Federal High Court ruling on INEC timelines for party primaries as a possible opening for the governor should he decide to seek another political platform.
Meanwhile, there are indications that some of Fubara’s loyalists who were disqualified during the APC screening process may defect to other political parties in the coming weeks.
