Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries, saying the decision was taken after “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, friends, and associates.

In a statement personally signed and released on Wednesday, Fubara said he made the difficult but necessary decision in the interest of peace, stability, and unity in Rivers State, while pledging support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.

According to him, leadership demands sacrifice, adding that personal ambitions must sometimes give way to the broader interests 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,” he stated.

The governor expressed gratitude to his supporters for their loyalty, prayers, and commitment throughout his political journey, acknowledging the disappointment many of them may feel following his decision.

He noted that his silence in recent times had been “deliberate and strategic,” stressing that some circumstances surrounding his decision were best handled with wisdom and restraint.

“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” Fubara said, hinting at pressures and difficult choices he had encountered.

The Rivers governor also thanked the APC leadership for providing him a platform and appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and support.

Reaffirming his commitment to the ruling party, Fubara urged party faithful and supporters to remain united and committed to building a stronger APC.

He further clarified that his decision to step aside from the governorship race was not borne out of fear or weakness.

“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity,” he said.

Fubara maintained that he remains committed to serving the people of Rivers State until the completion of his current tenure.