Tonye Cole, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Rivers State governorship in the 2023 elections, has urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who is currently facing political challenges, to engage directly with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Cole suggested that Fubara should seek a mutual understanding that would grant him the necessary autonomy to govern effectively within the existing power dynamics of the state.
Cole expressed concern over the precarious position Fubara finds himself in under the current political framework.
During an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Morning Brief’ on Wednesday, Cole highlighted the persistent issue of succession politics in Nigeria. He noted that outgoing governors often handpick successors who are expected to carry on their legacy, but these successors frequently struggle to exercise full control over their administrations.
“Governors stepping down usually want someone who will continue their policies. However, when a new governor is allowed to operate independently, progress tends to follow,” Cole explained.
He criticized the influence of political godfathers who attempt to dominate their successors, arguing that such interference undermines democratic principles and ultimately harms the populace.
“Whenever a godfather tries to control the new governor, democracy suffers, and the people end up paying the price,” he added.
Having contested against Fubara in the recent governorship election, Cole observed that the suspended governor seems constrained, especially as he prepares to resume office following the end of the State of Emergency.
“My hope is that when he returns-though the situation remains uncertain-he will be able to make decisions. Right now, it appears he lacks the authority to do so,” Cole remarked.
When asked how he would handle the situation if he were in Fubara’s position, Cole was straightforward: “I would initiate a dialogue with the Honourable Minister to negotiate a compromise that allows me to make certain decisions independently while others are jointly managed.”
He also pointed out that the specifics of the reconciliation agreement between Fubara and Wike have not been disclosed, leaving questions about the extent of the governor’s current powers.
“Without knowing the terms of their peace deal, it’s impossible to determine how much control the governor truly has now,” Cole concluded.
