A report published by The Punch on Thursday, May 21, 2026, indicates that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing significant political tension as governorship primaries begin in all 36 states, with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s withdrawal becoming a major highlight.…....
Governor Fubara confirmed his exit on Wednesday night, describing the move as a necessary sacrifice aimed at maintaining peace and stability in Rivers State.
His decision follows a long-standing three-year rift with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
At the state party level, multiple legislative aspirants aligned with the governor were disqualified, effectively paving the way for Wike’s ally, Kingsley Chinda, who has now become the leading candidate after another strong contender, Tonye Cole, also stepped aside to support party unity.
In 11 states, including Delta, Kaduna, and Kano, governors have been returned as consensus candidates for a second term. Nevertheless, competition remains fierce in over 10 other states where aspirants have rejected consensus-based arrangements.
In Kwara State, 13 aspirants are preparing to challenge Ambassador Yahaya Seriki, who has been endorsed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as his preferred successor.
In Plateau State, Yilcini Bida has denied rumors of withdrawing from the race, confirming his intention to contest against Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
In Adamawa State, political divisions are also evident, with supporters of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu backing different candidates, Mustapha Salihu and Tijjani Galadima respectively. Similar contested primaries are ongoing in Oyo, Bauchi, Benue, and Nasarawa States.
The APC national leadership has confirmed that direct primaries will proceed in states where consensus agreements could not be reached, as efforts continue to manage internal disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
