Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has stated that the decision of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to pull out of the 2027 gubernatorial race is tied to a political peace pact meant to stabilize the state.
Wike shared this on Monday during a press briefing following an inspection of infrastructure projects in Abuja.
He explained that the development matches the understandings reached during reconciliation talks between major political figures in Rivers State.
Fubara had recently withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary, stating that his choice was made after extensive consultations and for the sake of peace, unity, and stability in the state.
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In a statement titled “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” the governor noted that the step was taken after deep reflection and discussions with his family, political allies, and associates.
However, Wike insisted that the withdrawal was expected, noting that it aligned with what was previously settled during peace talks.
According to the former Rivers State governor, part of the pact involved dropping the impeachment threats against Fubara on the condition that he would not pursue a second term in office.
He also criticized the governor for purchasing the nomination forms in the first place, stating that it went against the agreement and made reconciliation more difficult.
“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 remarked that the governor’s previous actions “didn’t show signs of gentlemanship” despite multiple interventions to bring back stability.
“But whatever it is, he has withdrawn and somebody has emerged,”
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Wike further showed confidence in Chinda’s political track record, describing the lawmaker as an excellent fit for the governorship seat.
“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.”
