Screening: Fubara’s fate hangs as APC fails to confirm gov’s fate
Suspended Rivers Governor’s Fate Remains Unclear as APC Screening Continues
By Omeiza Ajayi, Abuja
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has not confirmed whether suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara participated in the party’s ongoing screening of governorship aspirants, leaving his political future uncertain.
APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru addressed reporters on the matter Sunday, opting for a response that did not definitively confirm or deny Fubara’s appearance before the screening committee.
“I don’t know what you mean by ‘screen,’” Basiru said. “Anybody who appears before the screening committee is, of course, part of the process. After completing its meetings, the screening committee will issue a report. As of now, there is no report from the committee.”
Basiru’s ambiguous statement heightened concerns regarding Fubara, whose situation remains a focal point in the APC’s preparations for the upcoming 2027 governorship elections.
Reports indicate that Fubara spent approximately 20 minutes with the screening committee before departing abruptly without engaging with the media, a move that suggested dissatisfaction with the proceedings.
In contrast, Plateau State governorship hopeful Commander Yilchini Jan Bida (retd) praised the screening process, asserting that it underscores the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
“The process went well and shows that APC is a party that believes in internal democracy,” Bida stated. “They want to create an open field and a level playing ground for anyone who feels they have something to offer to their state.”
Bida expressed confidence about his chances in the upcoming primaries, bolstered by what he described as strong grassroots support from Plateau residents. He anticipates that a direct primary will empower voters to choose their gubernatorial candidate.
“When I picked up my nomination forms, the people of Plateau celebrated,” he noted. “When I submitted my forms, they rejoiced. I can assure you that this evening there will be celebrations across the Plateau because I have been screened successfully. The people are waiting for me to return home, and I hope to be sworn in as the governor of Plateau on May 29, 2027.”
Further developments from the APC’s screening exercise are expected as the party prepares to finalize its list of candidates for the upcoming elections.
