The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that he was not surprised by the decision of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to withdraw from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary ahead of the 2027 election.
Speaking after inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja on Monday, Wike said Fubara was never expected to participate in the race, insisting that an earlier agreement reached during efforts to resolve their political dispute included a condition that the governor would not seek a second term.
According to Wike, the arrangement also involved dropping impeachment moves against Fubara in exchange for his decision not to contest again.
Fubara had earlier announced his withdrawal from the APC primary, explaining that the move was aimed at preserving peace, unity and stability in Rivers State following months of political tension between him and his predecessor.
Reacting to the emergence of House of Representatives Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, as the APC governorship candidate, Wike described him as experienced and politically capable, adding that his background in both the legislative and executive arms of government positioned him strongly for the race.
The FCT minister also used the opportunity to praise ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja, describing them as evidence of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to development and effective governance.
He commended the pace and quality of work on major road projects, including the Airport Road to Kuje Expressway, Kuje to Gwagwalada Road, and the access road leading to Renewed Hope City in Karsana.
Wike further applauded the remodelling of the Abuja City Gate, noting that the transformation would give residents and visitors a better impression of the nation’s capital, especially at night.
