According to a report by The Punch on Thursday, May 21, 2026, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has stepped down from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary race, a decision widely seen as an attempt to reduce rising political tension and prevent a deeper crisis within the state chapter of the party.
Fubara made the announcement on Wednesday night and described his withdrawal as a difficult but necessary choice. He explained that the interest of Rivers State comes first, adding that he could not allow the ongoing political disputes to escalate further. He also called on his supporters to remain calm and continue to respect the peace process within the party.
His decision is linked to the long-running political disagreement in Rivers State involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The struggle for influence between both political camps has shaped party structure and loyalty in the state for years, creating repeated tensions within the APC and its wider political network.
The situation became more complicated after recent party screening exercises led to the disqualification of over 30 aspirants believed to be aligned with Fubara. This development significantly altered the balance of power in the race, leaving Wike’s ally, Kingsley Chinda, as the main remaining contender after former governorship hopeful Tonye Cole also exited the contest.
Across Nigeria, political negotiations ahead of the 2027 elections are producing different outcomes. Some governors in states like Kaduna, Kano, and Delta have reportedly secured consensus arrangements that smooth the path for continuity, while other states continue to witness resistance from aspirants demanding open primaries.
In Kwara State, about 13 aspirants have rejected consensus arrangements favouring the successor backed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Yahaya Seriki, insisting on contesting in a full primary election.
In Plateau State, retired military officer Yilcini Bida dismissed reports of stepping down and confirmed he remains in the race against Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Meanwhile, in Adamawa State, political camps aligned with Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu are backing different candidates, adding to the tension.
The APC national leadership has maintained that direct primaries will hold in any state where consensus arrangements collapse completely, setting the stage for more competitive internal battles ahead of the 2027 general elections.