Sir Mascot Uzor Kalu has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship race in Abia State, saying the decision is in the interest of fairness and the state’s power rotation arrangement.

In a press statement released on Wednesday, Kalu told supporters, party members, and the public that the move followed “wide consultations with family members, friends, and stakeholders.”

He gave two main reasons for stepping down. First, he noted that his brother, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, had already secured the APC senatorial ticket, and his withdrawal would allow other aspirants a chance to contest for governor.

Second, he said stakeholders agreed that “in the interest of fairness and equity, Abia Central should be allowed to complete its eight years of power rotation, which it has already commenced.”

Kalu thanked his wife, children, and mother for standing by him since he declared his aspiration. He also expressed appreciation to his brothers, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Hon. Nnanna Uzor Kalu, as well as his campaign team. He singled out Reverend Chuks Alozie, Samuel Nwachukwu, and Ifeanyi Adijeh for their “unalloyed support and dedication throughout this journey.”

The withdrawal narrows the field ahead of the APC governorship primaries in Abia State.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship primaries scheduled for Thursday.

In a statement titled _“My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries”_ signed on Wednesday night, Fubara said the move followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family, friends, and associates. He pledged to support whoever emerges as the APC candidate.

“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice,” Fubara wrote. “There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people. Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest.”

He thanked supporters for their time, resources, prayers, and loyalty, acknowledging the disappointment his decision may cause. Fubara said his recent silence had been deliberate and strategic, guided by what he described as the higher interest of the state.

“Not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he noted. “Some truths are best borne quietly, not out of fear, but out of wisdom and restraint for the sake of peace and a greater purpose. I have faced immense pressures and difficult choices, but my love for Rivers State remains greater than anything else.”

Fubara also thanked the APC for the platform and support, and expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement. He urged party members to remain united and focused on building a stronger future.

“I stepped aside not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity,” he said. “I remain committed to serving the good people of Rivers State till the end of my term.”

Stanley Mba urges Gooners across Abia to turn out in red and white

Diehard Arsenal fan and media professional Stanley Mba has called on all Arsenal supporters in Abia State to come out en masse for a victory parade scheduled for Monday, 25th May 2026.

The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m., with Osisioma Junction serving as the take-off point. Organisers say the event is to celebrate the club’s Premier League success and unite Gooners across the state in a show of support.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mba said the parade is an opportunity for fans to celebrate together and demonstrate the strength of Arsenal’s following in Aba and beyond.

“I am calling on every true Gooner in Abia to come out in their Arsenal jerseys and be part of this historic moment,” Mba said. “We want to paint Aba red and white and show the world the passion of Arsenal fans here.”

The organisers expect a large turnout from fans in Aba, Umuahia, and surrounding areas. Participants are encouraged to arrive early at Osisioma Junction in their Arsenal Jerseys and adhere to safety guidelines during the procession.

Arsenal Forever.