APC Chairman Finally Speaks on Fubara’s Withdrawal From 2027 Governorship Race

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has broken his silence on the withdrawal of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara from the party’s 2027 governorship primary race, insisting that the governor stepped down voluntarily and was not forced out of the contest.

Speaking during a television interview, Yilwatda dismissed speculations that Fubara was disqualified or pressured by the party leadership. According to him, the Rivers governor had successfully purchased the APC nomination forms, appeared before the screening committee, and passed the screening process before eventually deciding to withdraw from the race on his own.

The APC chairman explained that the party had fully prepared for the primary election and was expecting Fubara’s participation before the governor communicated his decision to step aside. He stressed that the move should not be interpreted as a rejection by the ruling party but rather as a personal political decision made by Fubara himself.

Fubara had earlier announced his withdrawal from the APC governorship primaries, describing the decision as “difficult but necessary.” The governor stated that peace, unity, and stability in Rivers State were more important than personal ambition, adding that he remained committed to supporting whoever emerges as the APC candidate.

The development comes amid continued political tension in Rivers State following the prolonged crisis involving Fubara and former Rivers governor as well as FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Political observers believe the withdrawal could significantly reshape the power dynamics within the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

Despite stepping down from the race, Fubara has repeatedly reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC, dismissing rumours that he planned to leave the party. He recently stated that he remains committed to the party and its overall interests despite ongoing political challenges in the state.

The latest comments from the APC chairman are expected to fuel further debate across political circles as Rivers State continues to remain one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political battlegrounds ahead of the next general elections.