Rivers State politics took another dramatic turn after Governor Siminalayi Fubara suddenly withdrew from the APC governorship primary ahead of the 2027 elections.
The unexpected decision shocked many supporters who had believed the governor would fight to secure the party’s ticket despite the growing political tension around him.
Fubara explained that his withdrawal was necessary for the peace, unity and stability of Rivers State, insisting that leadership sometimes requires personal sacrifice.
However, the move has triggered mixed reactions across the state, with many supporters feeling disappointed and politically abandoned.
Before the withdrawal, Fubara was one of several aspirants expected to contest the APC primary alongside Tonye Cole, Dax George Kelly and Kingsley Chinda.
But after a series of political developments, the race eventually cleared for Chinda to emerge unopposed.
Reports suggest Fubara may have realised early that the political structure within the APC was no longer in his favour.
Political observers believe the governor’s problems began shortly after he assumed office in 2023, following his fallout with former Rivers governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The crisis led to several impeachment attempts, political confrontations and deep divisions within the Rivers political structure.
Although Fubara later joined the APC, many analysts now believe the move may not have provided the political protection he expected.
Despite entering the ruling party, reports indicate that the governor never fully controlled the APC structure in Rivers State, with many key party figures and local government leaders remaining loyal to Wike.
Several of Fubara’s loyalists were reportedly disqualified from contesting legislative positions during the APC screening process, further weakening his political camp.
The situation has sparked intense debate about the governor’s next political move ahead of 2027.
While some supporters are urging him to remain calm and avoid actions that could worsen tensions, others believe he may eventually move to another political platform.
There are already speculations linking Fubara to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), especially after reports emerged that someone believed to be close to him picked up the party’s governorship form.
Meanwhile, reactions continue pouring in from political leaders and stakeholders in Rivers State.
Some Niger Delta leaders have described the current situation as a major political crisis capable of reshaping the state’s future ahead of the next election cycle.
Despite the uncertainty, many observers say the political battle between camps loyal to Fubara and Wike is far from over.
