Governor Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries in Rivers State, saying the decision was taken in the interest of peace, stability, and unity in the state.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Rivers governor said the move followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with his family, friends, and political associates.

Fubara described the decision as difficult but necessary, stressing that leadership sometimes requires personal ambition to give way for the greater good of the people.

According to him, Rivers State remains bigger than any individual and the current political atmosphere demands sacrifice to preserve harmony and stability.

“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.

The governor thanked his supporters for their loyalty, prayers, sacrifices, and unwavering support throughout the political process, acknowledging that many of them would feel disappointed by his withdrawal.

He said his silence in recent weeks had been “deliberate and strategic,” adding that it was guided by the higher interest of Rivers State and its people.

In what appeared to be a veiled reference to political pressures surrounding the contest, Fubara stated that he had faced “immense pressures and difficult choices,” but chose restraint and sacrifice in order to protect peace in the state.

“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 added.

The governor also expressed appreciation to the APC leadership and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support and encouragement during the process.

Reaffirming his commitment to the ruling party, Fubara urged APC members and supporters to remain united and steadfast ahead of the governorship election.

He maintained 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,” he said.

Fubara also pledged to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the end of his tenure.