APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, has stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to withdraw from the Rivers State APC governorship primary was entirely personal, emphasizing that the party adhered strictly to due process throughout the exercise.
Read more: Yilwatda: Fubara’s Withdrawal from Rivers APC Gubernatorial Primary Is a Personal DecisionSpeaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Yilwatda explained that Fubara voluntarily pulled out after successfully completing the party’s screening.
“He bought the forms, came for screening, passed the screening, and we were waiting for the primaries before he chose to step down. It was his personal decision,” Yilwatda said.
Yilwatda also dismissed claims that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, influenced the outcome of the Rivers APC primary.
“Wike is not in our party. He is in the PDP,” he asserted, denying allegations that the former Rivers governor played a role in the process or that Fubara was prevented from securing the APC ticket.
Aspirants’ Disqualification
Last week, the APC released several disqualification lists for legislative and governorship aspirants following national screening exercises ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing these disqualifications, Yilwatda stressed that party rules require all aspirants to be financially active members.
“Our guidelines state that to contest, you must be a financial member of the party and have proof of paying your dues. If someone hasn’t paid dues or lacks proof of financial membership, they stand disqualified. You must be a member of the APC,” he explained.
Equal Rights for Members
On the eligibility of House of Representatives member Kingsley Chinda—who was minority leader before securing the APC governorship ticket in Rivers—Yilwatda clarified:
“He defected. Our party has no waiver system. Even if you decamp to our party today, once you are properly registered, you enjoy equal rights with every other member.”
Governor Fubara had earlier cited the need to prioritize peace, stability, and unity in Rivers State as reasons for his withdrawal from the APC primary ahead of the 2027 election. His decision came amid speculation due to his previous ties with political godfather, Wike.
Meanwhile, another aspirant, Tonye Cole, also withdrew from the race, pledging loyalty to the party and promising to support whoever emerges as the APC candidate.
Ultimately, Kingsley Chinda emerged as the APC governorship candidate for Rivers State.
