According to a report by Daily Post on Thursday, May 21, 2026, former Sokoto State Deputy Governor, Mukhtar Shagari, has spoken about the political disposition of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, describing him as a mature and well-educated individual who understands his personal and political choices.
He made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television on Thursday, where he addressed recent developments surrounding Fubara’s political engagements and decisions.
Shagari’s comments centered on Fubara’s character, his approach to political participation, and his recent withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries.
He referenced Fubara’s decision to step away from the APC governorship primary contest, noting that the Rivers State governor chose not to continue in the race for the party’s ticket.
According to him, the withdrawal was connected to broader considerations around the 2027 political cycle.
He emphasized that the development should be viewed in light of the governor’s personal judgment regarding his political future within the ongoing electoral preparations.
Shagari further stated that Fubara’s exit from the 2027 political process was not influenced by external pressure.
He explained that the governor made the decision independently, indicating that his actions were based on personal assessment rather than coercion from any political actor or group.
The remarks highlighted the voluntary nature of the governor’s withdrawal from the APC primary process and the broader 2027 political engagement framework.
He also stressed the principle of political freedom, stating that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to decide whether to participate in elections or step aside.
In his explanation, he pointed out that such decisions are part of democratic practice and should be understood within the context of individual liberty.
He maintained that participation in political processes remains a personal choice, and no individual should be compelled to take part against their will.
In addition, Shagari characterized Governor Fubara as a leader who is both mature and well-educated, suggesting that these qualities influence his decisions in public life.
He implied that Fubara’s background equips him with the capacity to make informed choices regarding his political involvement.
His remarks were framed around the idea that leadership decisions are often shaped by personal understanding, experience, and education.
He concluded his remarks by reiterating that decisions made by political actors, especially those relating to participation in electoral contests, should be respected by others in the political space.
He maintained that individuals who choose to step back from political competition should have their choices acknowledged without interference or misrepresentation, especially when such decisions are made voluntarily.
He said, “Nobody forced him. Governor Fubara is a mature and well-educated leader who, like every Nigerian, has the right to participate in the democratic process or choose not to.
“He has made his decision not to take part in the 2027 political process, and that choice should be respected.