Wike Reveals Why Fubara Withdrew from 2027 Rivers Governorship Race
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that the withdrawal of Siminalayi Fubara from the 2027 Rivers State governorship race was part of a political agreement designed to restore peace and stability in the state.
Wike made the disclosure on Monday while speaking with journalists after inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja.
According to the former Rivers governor, the decision by Fubara to step down from the governorship contest was consistent with agreements reached during reconciliation meetings involving major political stakeholders in Rivers State.
Governor Fubara had earlier announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary, explaining that the decision followed consultations with family members, political associates, and supporters.
In a statement titled “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” Fubara said his action was taken in the interest of peace, unity, and political stability in Rivers State.
However, Wike insisted that the governor’s withdrawal did not come as a surprise because it was already part of understandings reached during negotiations aimed at resolving the prolonged political crisis in the state.
“I am not surprised that the governor withdrew. In the first place, he ought not to have collected the form, because agreement was reached that the impeachment should be dropped, while he should also not go about a second term,” Wike said.
The FCT minister alleged that one of the conditions of the peace arrangement was the suspension of impeachment moves against Fubara in exchange for his commitment not to seek re-election in 2027.
Wike also criticised the governor for initially obtaining nomination forms, arguing that the move contradicted the spirit of the reconciliation agreement and created further complications in ongoing peace efforts.
According to him, several interventions had already been made to stabilise the political situation in Rivers State, but some of the governor’s earlier actions “didn’t show signs of gentlemanship.”
“But whatever it is, he has withdrawn and somebody has emerged,” he added.
Wike further expressed confidence in Kingsley Chinda, describing him as a strong and experienced candidate for the governorship position.
“A good product markets itself. Everybody knows that Kingsley Chinda is the material,” the minister stated.
“He’s quite experienced. He has worked with the Executive and is now in the Legislature. I am sure that he must have been approached by the All Progressives Congress to join them and then get the ticket.”
