Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Former Rivers State governorship candidate under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tonye Cole, has raised serious concerns over the deepening political uncertainty in the state, describing the current landscape as “chaotic” and lacking clear direction.
Speaking during a live appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on Sunday night, Cole criticized the ongoing political confusion in Rivers, particularly the blurred lines between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“We don’t even know which party is actually in power in Rivers State. Is it the APC? Is it the PDP? Or is it some hybrid of the two?” Cole asked.
“Where Does Wike Really Stand?”
Cole specifically questioned the political allegiance of Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who has been a central figure in the Rivers State political drama.
“I have no idea whether Wike is in the PDP, the APC, or both. His political position remains unclear, and that uncertainty is part of what’s destabilizing Rivers State,” Cole stated.
The former APC candidate lamented that Rivers has become a political flashpoint for all the wrong reasons, repeatedly making national headlines for intra-party conflicts and unclear loyalties.
“Rivers State always seems to be in the headlines, but unfortunately, it’s rarely for the right reasons. We are being used as a testbed for political experiments, and it’s hurting governance,” he added.
Calls for Rule of Law and Stability
Cole emphasized the need to restore governance, order, and the rule of law in the state, noting that real progress cannot happen amid ongoing party disputes and leadership ambiguity.
“If we want Rivers State to work, we must return to the basics: enforce the rule of law and ensure a clear political structure,” he said.
Affirming His Role in Rivers APC
While acknowledging the factional tensions within the APC, Cole reaffirmed his role as the legitimate leader of the party in Rivers State:
“I remain the leader of the APC in Rivers State. That’s the structure I represent. Until the President makes a different call, I’ll continue to lead the recognized APC faction here,” he said.
Key Takeaways:
Tonye Cole decries “chaotic” political scene in Rivers State
Says the state’s politics appear to be a “mix” of APC and PDP
Questions Nyesom Wike’s political allegiance
Reaffirms his position as leader of the APC in Rivers State
Calls for restoration of law, order, and transparent governance
