Shagari Defends Fubaras APC Withdrawal: Nobody Forced Him

Former Sokoto State Deputy Governor, Mukhtar Shagari, has spoken in support of Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, describing him as a mature and well-educated leader who made a personal decision to withdraw from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries for 2027. Shagari made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television on Thursday, emphasizing that Fubara’s choice was voluntary and should be respected without speculation or political commentary.

Shagari stressed that Governor Fubara did not face any external pressure or coercion in his decision to step back from the 2027 political race. He highlighted that every Nigerian citizen, especially a public figure like Fubara, has the right to choose whether or not to participate in the democratic process. The former deputy governor pointed out that Fubara’s withdrawal was made after careful consultations and that the governor remains committed to his political party, the APC.

According to Shagari, the decision reflects Fubara’s maturity and understanding of his own political trajectory. He noted that the governor has not indicated any influence from political allies, party elders, or external forces in making this choice. Instead, the move is seen as a personal and deliberate one, rooted in self-assessment and strategic thinking.

Shagari urged Nigerians to respect Fubara’s decision, calling for an end to unnecessary speculation and political narratives that could undermine the governor’s autonomy. He reiterated that political participation is a right, not an obligation, and that leaders must be allowed to make choices based on their own judgment and circumstances.

The statement comes amid growing discussions within Nigerian political circles about the 2027 governorship elections, particularly in Rivers State, where Fubara’s withdrawal has sparked debate. Despite the absence of official reasons from the governor, Shagari’s comments aim to provide clarity and reduce the noise around the issue.

As Nigeria continues to prepare for the next round of elections, the actions of current leaders like Fubara will be closely watched. Shagari’s defense of Fubara’s decision underscores the importance of personal agency in Nigerian politics, setting a precedent for how political choices should be viewed and respected in the public sphere.