The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has clarified that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara voluntarily withdrew from the party’s governorship primary after successfully completing the screening process. This statement comes amid speculation that Fubara may have been disqualified.
Fubara’s Withdrawal from APC Governorship Race
On May 20, Fubara announced his decision to step down from the APC governorship race, citing conviction and a desire to promote peace and unity in Rivers State. In a personally signed statement, he affirmed his commitment to supporting the eventual candidate chosen by the party. Prior to his withdrawal, both Fubara and Kingsley Chinda, an ally of Nyesom Wike, had undergone screening for the APC gubernatorial primary.
Speculation Following Screening Exercise
After the screening exercise, Fubara declined to address journalists, sparking speculation that he might have been disqualified. This speculation intensified when several associates loyal to the governor were reportedly disqualified during screenings for the Rivers State House of Assembly primaries, while aspirants aligned with Wike were cleared. However, Yilwatda dismissed these claims during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme.
“He bought the forms, came for screening, passed the screening, and we were waiting for the primaries before he opted to step down,” Yilwatda stated, reiterating that Fubara’s withdrawal was voluntary and not due to any failure in the screening process.
Rejection of Wike’s Influence
Yilwatda also rejected suggestions that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike may have influenced Fubara’s decision. He emphasized that Wike is not a member of the APC and therefore could not dictate the party’s internal processes. This development occurs against a backdrop of ongoing political tensions and shifting alliances in Rivers State as the 2027 elections approach.
