Basiru Reveals Why Fubara Was Absent At APC Governors Meeting And When He Will Be Formally Received

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru, has explained the absence of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, from a recent APC Governors meeting, attributing it to the governor’s birthday. Basiru made the clarification during an interview on TVC News on Thursday, January 29, 2026, while responding to questions concerning attendance at the meeting.

During the interview, the interviewer noted that several governors, including Governors Zulum and Yahaya, were absent and sent deputies to represent them. Attention was also drawn to the absence of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy from the meeting, raising questions about the development. Responding, Basiru said he was aware of the reason behind Fubara’s absence and linked it to a personal

According to him, “I already know from the library of your station, you know that yesterday was the birthday of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.” He further stated, “He became a year older yesterday.” Basiru explained that the occasion may have informed the governor’s decision to be away from official party activities. “So I would guess that he would take that time off to celebrate his birthday with his family, even maybe not with fanfare,” he said.

The APC National Secretary stressed that the information was not speculative, noting his certainty about the date. “But I understand and I know very well that yesterday was his birthday,” Basiru added. He said this personal milestone could reasonably explain why the Rivers State governor was not present at the meeting. “So that might be the reason why he was not at the meeting,” he stated.

Basiru acknowledged that Fubara’s absence was noticeable during the gathering, given his political relevance. “And of course, his absence was felt at that meeting,” he said. The APC chieftain also spoke on the party’s expectations regarding Rivers State and future engagements.

He expressed optimism that the party would soon strengthen its presence in the state. “And hopefully in a matter of time, the party structure and the progress will be in Port Harcourt,” Basiru said. He added that the visit would be aimed at formally welcoming the governor. “To formally receive him to the fold of the APC,” he concluded.