The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, stated that the withdrawal of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, from the 2027 governorship race is linked to a political peace agreement aimed at fostering peace in the state.
Wike made the remarks on Monday while briefing journalists after reviewing infrastructure projects in Abuja.
He stated that the move was consistent with agreements reached during reconciliation efforts involving key political actors in Rivers State.
Fubara was recently pulled down from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary, citing talks and the need for peace, unity, and stability in the state.
In a statement headlined “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” the governor stated the decision was made after careful consideration and consultation with family, allies, and associates.
However, Wike insisted that the pullout was not unexpected, claiming that it was consistent with previous agreements reached during peace talks.
According to the former Rivers State governor, part of the agreement included dropping impeachment charges against Fubara on the condition that he not seek a second term.
He also blamed the governor’s earlier decision to obtain nomination forms, saying it ran contrary to the spirit of the agreement and complicated reconciliation efforts.
“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 also stated that the governor’s earlier actions “didn’t show signs of gentlemanship” despite several interventions aimed at restoring stability.
“But whatever it is, he has withdrawn and somebody has emerged,” he stated.
Wike also voiced confidence in Chinda’s political qualifications, calling him a suitable governorship contender.
The minister added, “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.”
