Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), has revealed why Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers State, withdrew from the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing journalists on Monday, Wike noted that the move was part of a political agreement aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.
Fubara had earlier announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary, stating that the decision was taken after consultations and in the interest of peace, unity, and stability in the state.
In a statement titled, “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” the governor said he reached the decision after discussions with family members, political allies, and associates.
Reacting to the development, Wike said the governor’s withdrawal was expected because it formed part of the terms agreed upon during the peace negotiations.
The former Rivers State governor explained that one of the conditions for dropping impeachment threats against Fubara was that the governor would not seek a second term in office.
“I am not surprised that the governor withdrew. In the first place, he ought not to have collected the form, because agreement was reached that the impeachment should be dropped, while he should also not go about a second term,” Wike said.
He also criticised Fubara for initially obtaining nomination forms, saying the move contradicted the agreement and complicated reconciliation efforts.
According to Wike, the governor’s earlier actions “didn’t show signs of gentlemanship” despite several interventions aimed at restoring peace in the state.
“But whatever it is, he has withdrawn and somebody has emerged,” he added.
Wike also expressed support for lawmaker Kingsley Chinda as a potential governorship candidate, describing him as experienced and capable.
“A good product markets itself. Everybody knows that Kingsley Chinda is the material,” the minister said.
“He’s quite experienced. He has worked with the Executive and is now in the Legislature. I am sure that he must have been approached by the All Progressives Congress to join them and then get the ticket.”