By AAIOR K. COMFORT
Tonye Cole, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the 2023 Rivers governorship election, has said that the people of Rivers State are the biggest losers in the ongoing political battle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Cole highlighted how development in the state has stalled due to the conflict.

Development Stalled by Political Crisis

Cole criticized the political tussle, noting that the focus has shifted away from the needs of the people. He said, “As it stands right now, the people of Rivers do not matter in the equation being played out. This entire fight is political and involves only a small political group.”

His comments follow a recent Court of Appeal ruling that affirmed a lower court’s judgment, voiding the 2024 budget passed for Rivers State. Cole emphasized that the ongoing crisis affects ordinary citizens, as no development has occurred since the battle began.
Fubara’s Precarious Position

Cole also expressed concern for Governor Fubara, who he said is in a politically dangerous situation. According to Cole, with the court’s recognition of the Martins Amaewhule-led assembly, Fubara now faces the threat of impeachment.

Rivers State is currently run by three different political parties, with Fubara being from the PDP, the house of assembly aligned with APC, and local government structures led by APP. Cole pointed out the challenges this poses to effective governance.