Tonye Cole Warns Rivers State Has Been Set Back 20 Years by Political Feud
Former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate Tonye Cole has warned that the protracted political feud in Rivers State has pushed the region backwards by about two decades.
Speaking on the state of affairs, Cole said the prolonged dispute has deepened divisions and stunted development, urging stakeholders from all political camps to set aside partisanship and work together for the state’s revival.
Call for a Broad‑Based Rebuilding Effort
Cole revealed that he has already begun reaching out to political actors, community leaders, and other stakeholders across different factions. His aim is to address grievances and foster a spirit of unity that transcends party lines.
He emphasized that rebuilding Rivers State must involve competent individuals from every party, not just one dominant group. “The interests of the state should take priority over political differences,” he stated.
Unity Across Party Lines
Cole insisted that the way forward lies in collaboration: “We have to do that across party lines. We don’t care whether you are PDP, APC, ADC, or NDC. What matters now is that Rivers State seeks the best talent from everywhere, brings them together, and forges a master plan that moves the state forward.”
He added that past attempts at division and confrontation have failed to produce meaningful development, leaving the state at a crossroads where collective action is essential.
Warning Against Further Conflict
Cole warned that failure to reconcile the differing political camps could plunge Rivers State into another damaging round of conflict. “The only way to avoid that is to bring the best from all camps, unite, and deliver a new Rivers State. If we do not, we will face another bitter division that will not progress us,” he said.
He concluded by saying that efforts are underway to bring aggrieved parties together and secure a shared commitment to the state’s progress, urging everyone to agree that it is time to move Rivers State forward.
