A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Tonye Cole, has expressed concerns about the challenges Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State will face upon his return from suspension.
According to Cole, Fubara will find himself in a difficult situation, unable to make key decisions without external interference.
Cole stated this on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, describing Fubara’s situation as “extremely difficult”.
He emphasized that the dynamics of Nigerian politics often lead to power struggles between governors and their predecessors or godfathers, which can hinder progress and negatively impact citizens.
“You know, it’s extremely difficult, and I think the governor will be finding himself in a very difficult situation,” Cole said.
“First of all, the way politics has played out in Nigeria, almost in every situation, a governor leaving office looks for somebody he believes can continue whatever agenda he had moving forward.”
Cole noted that when governors are left to run their administrations without interference, progress is often made. However, when external forces dictate the pace, power struggles ensue, and citizens suffer. “Everywhere that fight has occurred, the people have tended to suffer a lot more,” he added.
Cole advised Fubara to seek an understanding with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to allow for some leeway in decision-making. “What I would do if I were him is to now sit down with the honourable minister and appeal for some leeway to allow certain decisions to be taken,” Cole suggested.
Ultimately, Cole’s concerns highlight the complexities of Nigerian politics and the need for effective governance in Rivers State.
