Tonye Cole, the former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, has pinpointed four key figures as critical to resolving the ongoing political crisis in the oil-rich state. During an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show, Cole stated that peace would remain elusive until these influential personalities sit together to settle their differences and put the state’s welfare above personal agendas.
The political unrest in Rivers State has intensified since last Saturday’s local government elections, sparking fears of potential instability. According to Cole, the solution lies in bringing together four central figures: ex-Governor Peter Odili, former Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Nyesom Wike, and current Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Cole explained that ex-Governor Peter Odili, often seen as the architect of the state’s political landscape, must be part of any peace negotiations. Rotimi Amaechi, a significant player in Rivers politics, is another essential figure who needs to be involved in discussions. Nyesom Wike, the former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, also holds considerable sway over the political dynamics of the region. Lastly, current Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who faces growing political tension, must join these leaders at the table to chart a way forward for the state.
Cole believes that President Bola Tinubu can play a vital role in overseeing this critical meeting. He emphasized that Tinubu’s involvement is necessary if true peace is to be restored in Rivers State. According to Cole, only through a collective decision to prioritize the state’s well-being can the political crisis be averted. “If the President really wants peace in Rivers State, he can superintend the meeting,” Cole asserted, signaling that the stakes are high as the crisis threatens to worsen.
Cole warned that unless this high-level meeting happens, Rivers State could face even greater unrest, especially as Governor Fubara’s tenure nears its end. “As soon as Fubara’s time is about to end, you will see an all-out war,” Cole predicted, suggesting that without decisive intervention, the state could be plunged into deeper chaos.
With Rivers State being a vital part of Nigeria’s oil production and a political powerhouse, the current unrest has raised concerns across the nation. The involvement of President Tinubu in resolving the crisis could prove to be the key to stabilizing the state’s political climate.
