A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Alabo George-Kelly, has withdrawn from the party’s forthcoming governorship primaries and pledged support for whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer.
His decision came hours after Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, also announced his withdrawal from the APC governorship primary race in what appears to be part of wider political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, George-Kelly said his withdrawal followed a crucial stakeholders’ meeting convened by the national leadership of the APC to deliberate on the party’s future in Rivers State and the need for unity and strategic alignment.
The aspirant, who described himself as a committed member of the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition for President Bola Tinubu under the leadership of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, said extensive consultations with members of his political team and other stakeholders informed the decision.
“Following that meeting, and after wide consultations with members of my political team and other critical stakeholders, I have taken the decision, in the overriding interest of party unity and in deference to the supremacy of the party, to withdraw from the forthcoming primaries,” he stated.
George-Kelly pledged his loyalty and cooperation to whoever emerges as the APC candidate, describing the move as necessary to strengthen the party ahead of 2027.
Meanwhile, Fubara, in a separate statement personally signed on Wednesday, said he withdrew from the APC governorship primary after deep reflection and consultations with family, friends and political associates.
According to the governor, leadership sometimes requires sacrifice and personal ambition must give way to collective interest.
“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,” Fubara stated.
He thanked the APC leadership for the opportunity to participate in the process and expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support and encouragement.
Fubara also urged party faithful to remain united, insisting his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness or surrender.
The governor acknowledged the disappointment his supporters might feel but said his silence in recent weeks had been deliberate and guided by the broader interest of the state.
The development adds to the ongoing political recalibrations in Rivers State following months of tensions and shifting alliances as parties prepare for the 2027 elections.
