Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary for the 2027 polls, committing to support the eventual party nominee.

In a statement he signed Wednesday, Fubara called the move “difficult but necessary,” saying it followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family, friends, and political allies.

“Leadership demands sacrifice. Sometimes personal ambition must give way to the collective interest of the people,” he said. “Rivers State is bigger than any individual. At this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our state must come first.”

The governor expressed gratitude to supporters for their loyalty and sacrifices, noting that many would be disappointed by his exit. He described his recent silence as “deliberate and strategic,” driven by the state’s broader interest.

“Not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” Fubara said, alluding to behind-the-scenes pressures. “Some truths are borne quietly, not out of fear, but out of wisdom and restraint for peace and a greater purpose.”

He also acknowledged the APC for providing a platform and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support.

The withdrawal comes amid a prolonged power tussle with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over Rivers’ political machinery. The dispute fractured the State House of Assembly, and several Fubara allies were recently left off the APC’s cleared list for Assembly primaries, while Wike-aligned lawmakers advanced.

APC officials had yet to comment publicly as of Wednesday night.