Politics in Rivers State just got a whole lot more complicated! Tonye Cole, former APC gubernatorial candidate, is sounding the alarm, suggesting Governor Siminalayi Fubara may have made a misstep by aligning with a specific faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This is a situation that could have serious implications.
In a recent interview, Cole clarified his position, stating that the Emeka Beke-led group is the legitimate leadership of the APC in Rivers State. This is crucial because it sets the stage for a potential power struggle.
Fubara's move to the APC in December 2025, initially celebrated by the party's national leadership, seems to have hit a snag. He was presented with his APC membership card by Tony Okocha, who leads a rival faction within the state. But here's where it gets controversial: Cole believes this is where the governor's troubles begin.
Cole argues that Fubara's membership might not be legally recognized within the state APC until he aligns with the Beke-led faction. He emphasizes that while the national party may acknowledge Fubara, the faction that welcomed him isn't legally recognized.
"He should come. We will recognize and welcome him because we have the legal standing to do so. He is not safe where he is," Cole stated. This is a bold statement, suggesting that Fubara's current position within the APC could be precarious. Cole further warned against repeating the 2019 election crisis, where the court barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing the party's candidates in Rivers State. This historical context adds weight to Cole's concerns.
And this is the part most people miss... Cole's perspective highlights the complexities of party politics and the importance of understanding the internal power dynamics.
What do you think about this situation? Do you agree with Cole's assessment, or do you believe Fubara's move was strategically sound? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
