By Our Correspondent
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Rivers State, marking a major shift in the state’s political landscape.
The announcement followed consultations with political associates and stakeholders. The decision comes after weeks of uncertainty within the party and rising political tension across the state.
Fubara said the move was taken in the interest of peace and stability in Rivers State, noting that leadership sometimes requires difficult choices to avoid further division. He also thanked his supporters and called for calm following the development.
His withdrawal has reshaped the APC governorship race in Rivers State, leaving other aspirants to strengthen their positions ahead of the primaries.
The development is also linked to ongoing political tensions in the state, especially the strained relationship between Fubara and his predecessor, former governor Nyesom Wike, a key figure in Rivers politics and national party affairs.
Observers say the rivalry between both sides has influenced political alignments and decision-making in the state since Fubara assumed office, leading to disputes within party structures and legislative groups.
Former APC governorship candidate Tonye Cole has also withdrawn from the race, reducing the number of contenders and opening space for possible consensus arrangements within the party.
Political analysts say the withdrawals could force the APC in Rivers State to adjust its strategy ahead of the next election cycle, in a state known for intense political competition.
Party insiders are now watching how leadership figures within the APC will respond to the shifting situation, especially as consultations continue on possible replacements and alliances ahead of the primaries.
Some stakeholders within the state argue that the latest development may reduce internal friction within the party, while others believe it could create further uncertainty if consensus is not reached quickly.
Attention is also turning to the wider impact on grassroots mobilization, as party supporters in several local government areas begin to reassess their alignments following the governor’s withdrawal.
Security and electoral observers note that Rivers State has remained one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political environments, with past elections marked by strong rivalries and high voter sensitivity.
In the coming weeks, political actors are expected to intensify negotiations aimed at unifying different blocs within the party, as preparations for the 2027 governorship contest continue.
Within opposition circles, the development is being closely monitored, with discussions ongoing about how the APC’s internal adjustments may influence voter sentiment and campaign structure.
As the situation develops, attention remains on how emerging candidates will position themselves and whether the party can maintain cohesion in a politically complex environment like Rivers State.
