The Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has explained why he withdrew from the governorship primaries of the All Progressives Congress ahead of the state election.
Fubara said his decision was not borne out of fear, weakness or surrender, but was taken in the interest of peace, unity and stability in the state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Rivers State, the governor said he chose to step aside after deep reflection and extensive consultations with family members, friends and political associates.
He stated, “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.”
The governor added that he remained committed to serving the people of Rivers State till the end of his tenure.
Fubara also appreciated the leadership of the APC for giving him the platform and support throughout the political process.
He specifically thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and support.
According to him, the APC remains a collective political family, urging party members and supporters to remain loyal and united.
The governor said, “Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people.”
He noted that Rivers State was bigger than any individual ambition, stressing that peace and stability must take priority at a critical period in the state.
Fubara further hinted at political pressure surrounding his decision, saying some realities were better handled with restraint and wisdom.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he said.
The governor, however, pledged support for whoever emerges as the APC governorship candidate.
He also thanked his supporters for their loyalty, prayers and sacrifices throughout the political journey, while appealing for understanding over his decision.