Political reactions have continued to trail the decision of Siminalayi Fubara to withdraw from the forthcoming governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with critics and supporters weighing the implications of the move on the political future of Rivers State and the expectations of his loyal followers.…....
Among those who reacted strongly was Ovie Success Ossai, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State, who expressed disappointment over Governor Fubara’s decision to step away from the APC primary race.
In a statement shared through his Facebook page on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, Ossai questioned the impact the withdrawal could have on political supporters, grassroots mobilisers, and loyalists who invested time, resources, and personal sacrifices in support of the Rivers State governor’s political struggle.
According to Ossai, political leadership comes with a responsibility to protect and stand by supporters who commit themselves to a cause, particularly those who may have taken personal risks during periods of political tension and uncertainty.
He argued that withdrawing from the contest at such a critical stage could leave many supporters feeling abandoned after placing their trust and hopes in the governor’s political ambition.
“Why make a decision that will destroy the destinies of the people who stood by you? If you weren’t ready to defend the people who risked their lives for you, you shouldn’t have started the fight in the first place. What now happened to people who risked their lives for you?” Ossai wrote.
His comments came shortly after Governor Fubara officially announced his withdrawal from the APC governorship primary election scheduled to hold on Thursday, a development that significantly altered the political calculations within the ruling party in Rivers State.
In a personally signed statement released Wednesday night, Governor Fubara confirmed his decision to exit the race and declared his intention to support whichever candidate eventually emerges as the party’s flag bearer.
The Rivers State governor explained that the decision was not taken lightly, noting that it followed a period of consultations and reflection involving members of his family, political allies, close associates, and supporters.
According to him, the overriding consideration was the broader interest of Rivers State and the need to place peace, unity, and political stability above personal ambition.
Fubara stressed that leadership sometimes demands difficult sacrifices, especially in situations where political decisions could either escalate tension or encourage reconciliation.
He maintained that preserving harmony within the political environment of Rivers State remained more important than pursuing individual political goals.
The governor also reiterated that the development and progress of Rivers State must remain the top priority for every political actor, regardless of personal interests or party considerations.
While acknowledging that his withdrawal might disappoint many loyal supporters who had stood firmly behind him throughout his political journey, Fubara expressed appreciation for their unwavering support and encouragement over the years.
He stated that the decision was made in good faith and with the collective interest of the state in mind.
