By Chike Ofili
The political supremacy battle in Rivers State appeared to tilt decisively in favour of Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday after Governor Siminalayi Fubara formally withdrew from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries scheduled for Thursday, citing the need for peace and unity in the state.
Fubara’s withdrawal is widely seen as a major political victory for Wike, his estranged political godfather and predecessor, who has remained firmly in control of the state’s political structures despite months of fierce power tussles between both camps.
In a statement announcing his decision, the Rivers governor said he arrived at the move after “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, friends, and political associates.
“I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC gubernatorial primaries,” Fubara said. “I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party.”
The governor described leadership as a matter of sacrifice, insisting that personal ambition must sometimes give way to the collective interest 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,” he stated.
Fubara also acknowledged the disappointment his decision may generate among supporters who stood by him throughout the prolonged political crisis in the state.
“To my supporters who stood firmly with me throughout this journey, who gave their time, resources, prayers, and unwavering hope, I offer my deepest gratitude,” he said. “I understand the disappointment, the anger, and the pain many of you may feel.”
In what appeared to be a veiled reference to the intense political pressures surrounding the Rivers crisis, the governor said his silence over the period had been “deliberate and strategic,” adding that some realities were better handled with restraint.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he said. “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.”
Fubara maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as capitulation.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside 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 declared.
He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and encouragement, while reaffirming his commitment to the APC.
The withdrawal marks another dramatic turn in the political feud between Fubara and Wike, a conflict that has dominated Rivers politics since shortly after Fubara assumed office in 2023.
The crisis, rooted in the struggle for control of the state’s political machinery, escalated when lawmakers loyal to Wike, led by Martin Amaewhule, initiated moves to impeach the governor.
The prolonged impasse eventually prompted President Tinubu to declare emergency rule in Rivers State in March 2025, suspending Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly.
Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was subsequently appointed as sole administrator of the state before the emergency rule was lifted six months later.
The restoration of democratic structures followed a reconciliation involving Tinubu, Fubara, Wike, Amaewhule, and other political stakeholders, paving the way for the governor’s return to office.
With Fubara now stepping aside from the APC governorship contest, political observers say Wike has effectively reasserted his dominance over Rivers State politics ahead of the 2027 elections.