Rivers State finds itself in a political quagmire, described by Tonye Cole, a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governorship candidate, as a “party-less state.” Cole lamented the lack of clear political alignment in the state, warning that the resulting confusion could impede governance and development.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News on Wednesday, Cole painted a grim picture of Rivers’ political landscape. “It’s a state of confusion, and that cannot be allowed to continue,” he declared.
PDP Influence in APC-led Government
Cole expressed his concern over the influence of a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) member in an APC-led federal government. “For some reason, we have a minister that is PDP in an APC government who controls, to a large extent, both APC and PDP structures within the state,” he stated. According to Cole, this unusual political dynamic creates inefficiencies and undermines the state’s progress.
Observers note that Rivers State has long been a battleground for political supremacy, with the PDP dominating state-level politics while the APC holds sway federally. Cole’s comments underline tensions that have persisted despite attempts to foster collaboration.
Budget Proposal and Governance Challenges
Cole’s criticism comes as Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara presented the state’s proposed N1.1 trillion budget for 2025 to the State House of Assembly. Governor Fubara highlighted key achievements, including investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, while also emphasizing efforts to bolster security.
Despite these claims, Cole argued that the focus on physical infrastructure like roads and bridges should not overshadow pressing socio-economic issues. “Visible infrastructure is important, but we cannot ignore the underlying challenges facing our people,” he asserted.
The budget presentation follows legal challenges that cast a shadow over the 2024 fiscal year. In 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja invalidated the state budget due to procedural irregularities, ordering it to be re-presented. This setback, Cole suggests, is emblematic of broader leadership issues in the state.
Fubara’s Leadership Under Scrutiny
Governor Fubara’s rise to prominence has been met with skepticism from some quarters, including Cole, who described him as a political figure forced to take bold steps amid adversity. “For now, he doesn’t have a choice. You either fight or you die. You swim or you sink, and he has chosen to swim,” Cole remarked.
Fubara, who transitioned from a quieter political role to the governorship, has faced significant challenges, including navigating a politically divided landscape. His administration’s initiatives, while ambitious, have drawn mixed reactions from political analysts and citizens alike.
Optimism for 2025
Despite his criticism, Cole expressed hope for a transformative year ahead. “This is a year that will surprise a lot of people. It’s a year where bold and audacious steps will yield extreme results,” he predicted. He urged Nigerians to embrace resilience, adding, “We have never been known as a timid people.”
Cole’s remarks resonate with Rivers residents who continue to grapple with challenges ranging from unemployment to inadequate public services. Many agree that bold leadership is essential to address the state’s complex issues.
A Call for Clarity and Unity
Cole’s characterization of Rivers as a “party-less state” has sparked debate among political stakeholders. Some argue that the state’s unique political composition could foster collaboration, while others view it as a recipe for gridlock. The APC stalwart insists that clarity and unity are essential for progress.
“It’s not about party loyalty; it’s about delivering for the people. We need leaders who can rise above the chaos and focus on what really matters,” Cole emphasized.
Background and Implications
Rivers State, one of Nigeria’s wealthiest due to its oil resources, has historically played a significant role in the country’s political and economic landscape. However, its potential has often been overshadowed by political infighting and governance challenges.
The recent budget proposal, if implemented effectively, could mark a turning point for the state. Investments in critical sectors like education and healthcare are expected to yield long-term benefits, but political analysts warn that sustained progress requires stable leadership and clear priorities.
Future Prospects
As Rivers navigates these turbulent waters, the question remains whether Governor Fubara and other political actors can rise above partisanship to chart a clear path forward. For now, Cole’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved.
The year 2025 may indeed bring surprises, as Cole suggests, but whether these surprises are positive will depend on the choices made by Rivers’ leaders and the support they garner from the public.