*Governor : state bigger than individuals
By Olawale Lamina
Rivers state Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primaries ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election, attributing his latest move to the need for peace, stability and unity in among the people.
A statement personally signed by the governor on Wednesday conveyed notice of his withdrawal
He cited “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, friends and political associates as the reason behind his action.
He explained further that, “Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people.
“Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest.”
In a remarkable demonstration of sportsmanship, Fubara pledged support for whoever becomes as the APC candidate in the state.
He appreciated supporters of his political interest for standing by him throughout the period of political turbulence, while at the same time thanking others for their personal sacrifices acknowledging the sacrifices in anticipation of the party primaries.
Fubara said: “I understand the disappointment, the anger, and the pain many of you may feel. Much has indeed been invested and much sacrificed along the way. But please know that your loyalty and trust were never in vain.”
Rivers state has been under political crisis brought about by conflict of interests between the benefactor and his political beneficiary. The crisis once reached a head resulting in declaration of the state of emergency by President Tinubu’s administration. Even, since return to democratic Governance in the state after the expiration of emergency rule, the state under the leadership of Sir Siminalayi Fubara has been confronted with one situation or the other bothering on control of political structures between him and his godfather, Nyesom Wike, the current minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
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