How Fubara’s miscalculation alters Rivers politics

Fubara Withdraws from APC Governorship Primary, Altering Rivers Politics

By Daniel Abia

RIVERS STATE—Governor Siminalayi Fubara announced on May 20, 2026, that he would not participate in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary scheduled for the following day, a decision he attributed to the need for peace and party unity in Rivers State.

“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice,” Fubara stated. “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.”

For many of his supporters, Fubara’s announcement was a bitter pill to swallow. He expressed gratitude to those who backed him throughout his political journey but acknowledged their disappointment and anger.

In the lead-up to the primary, four aspirants had expressed interest in the governorship race. Three, including Fubara, hailed from the Kalabari ethnic group, while Hon. Kingsley Chinda emerged as the leading candidate from the Ikwerre group. Chinda subsequently won the primary unopposed after the other aspirants, including Fubara, stepped aside.

Reports indicate that Fubara met with close allies on the eve of his withdrawal and revealed his intentions regarding the primary. His name was notably absent from the APC screening committee’s list, which cleared Dax George Kelly, Chinda, and Tonye Cole to participate.

Speculation suggests that Fubara anticipated a loss in the primary, prompting his decision to withdraw. As a result, he has left many of his supporters feeling abandoned, leading to tensions within his camp.

Political turmoil for Fubara began shortly after he took office in 2023, where attempts at impeachment and political instability marked his administration. Despite making a strategic move by joining the APC last December to bolster his political standing, Fubara has faced challenges within the party, including frosty relations with key party figures and the disqualification of many of his loyalists from upcoming elections.

Fubara’s recent decision has drawn mixed reactions. Some view it as a noble act, while others urge him to explore different political parties as alternatives for the 2027 elections. Concerns have been raised about potential risks associated with switching parties, including possible impeachment.

Speculations about Fubara’s potential alignment with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are emerging, fueled by recent legal judgements that may offer him new opportunities. His brother, Blessing Fubara, has already obtained a governorship form with the NDC, raising questions about the family’s political future.

As Fubara’s allies consider defection to other parties, the political landscape in Rivers State remains uncertain. The common sentiment among the populace appears to transcend party loyalties, with a unified desire for the welfare of Rivers State at the forefront of this evolving situation.

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