Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the governorship primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) scheduled to hold on Thursday in Rivers State.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that Fubara announced his withdrawal in a statement personally signed by him on Wednesday night and titled, “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries.”
The governor said his decision followed extensive consultations with family members, friends and political associates, adding that he would fully support whoever emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.
“After deep reflection and extensive consultations with my family, friends, and associates, 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 stated.
Fubara explained that his decision was driven by the need to prioritise peace, stability and unity in Rivers State above personal ambition.
“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people. 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.
The governor also expressed appreciation to his supporters for standing by him throughout his political journey, despite what he described as difficult moments and sacrifices made along the way.
“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. Much has indeed been invested and much sacrificed along the way. But please know that your loyalty and trust were never in vain,” he added.
The Rivers governor hinted at challenges and pressures he had faced in recent times but maintained that his silence had been deliberate in the interest of peace.
“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.
“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,” he stated.
Fubara thanked the APC leadership for giving him a platform during the process and also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and encouragement.
“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 said.
‘I Stepped Aside For Peace’
The governor urged party members and supporters to remain united and committed to the APC, describing the party as a collective home for all members.
“The APC remains our collective home, and I urge all party faithful and supporters to remain steadfast and committed as we continue to build a stronger and more united future together,” he noted.
Fubara stressed that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as an act of weakness or surrender.
“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.
“And I remain committed to serving the good people of Rivers State till the end of my term,” he added.