APC National Chairman Clarifies Fubara’s Withdrawal from Rivers Primary Was Personal Decision
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, stated that the party did not influence Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to withdraw from the Rivers State APC governorship primary.
He explained that Fubara’s withdrawal was a personal choice taken after he successfully completed the party’s screening process.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Yilwatda said Fubara bought the nomination forms, attended the screening, passed it, and was awaiting the primaries before opting to step down.
The APC chairman also dismissed claims that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had any role in the outcome, noting that Wike remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
On the disqualification of some aspirants, Yilwatda stressed that APC rules require contestants to be financially active members, meaning they must have proof of paying party dues before they can be nominated or voted for.
He added that anyone who has not paid dues and cannot show proof stands disqualified, reinforcing that membership in the APC is a prerequisite for contesting any position.
Regarding the eligibility of former House of Representatives minority leader Kingsley Chinda, who defected to the APC and secured the governorship ticket, Yilwatda said the party does not operate a waiver system, but once a defector is properly registered, they enjoy the same rights as long‑standing members.
About the Author
