Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, says the decision by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to withdraw from the 2027 governorship race is connected to a political understanding reached during reconciliation efforts in the state.
Wike, while speaking to journalists on Monday, May 26, after inspecting infrastructure projects in Abuja, said the development was in line with earlier peace arrangements involving major political actors in Rivers State.
First Daily reports that Governor Fubara had recently pulled out of the governorship race under the All Progressives Congress, saying his decision followed consultations and was taken in the interest of peace, unity, and stability in Rivers State.
In a statement titled “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” the governor explained that his decision came after careful reflection and discussions with family members, allies and close associates.
Wike, however, maintained that the withdrawal did not come as a surprise, insisting it was consistent with earlier agreements reached during political negotiations.
READ ALSO: Fubara Withdraws From Rivers APC Governorship Primary
“I am not surprised that the governor withdrew. In the first place, he ought not to have collected the form, because agreement was reached that the impeachment should be dropped, while he should also not go about a second term,” Wike said.
He further argued that some of the governor’s earlier political moves were not in line with the spirit of reconciliation, despite ongoing efforts to stabilise the state.
“But whatever it is, he has withdrawn and somebody has emerged,” he added.
The FCT Minister also commented on the emergence of Kingsley Chinda, describing him as a capable and experienced politician suited for the governorship race.
“A good product markets itself. Everybody knows that Kingsley Chinda is the material.
“He’s quite experienced. He has worked with the Executive and is now in the Legislature. I am sure that he must have been approached by the All Progressives Congress to join them and then get the ticket,” Wike said.