The former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Rivers State in the 2023 elections, Tonye Cole, has expressed his views on the ongoing political turmoil in the state.
According to Cole, lasting peace can only be achieved if four influential individuals come together for discussions.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday, Cole emphasised that the resolution of the crisis is critical, especially in light of the recent local government elections in Rivers State.
Cole suggested that President Bola Tinubu could facilitate the meeting if he is genuinely committed to restoring peace in the region.
He listed the four essential figures as former Governor Peter Odili, whom he referred to as the father of the current political dynamics, along with Rotimi Amaechi, Nyesom Wike, and current Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
He said: “I have already said some actors need to be on the table. There are four of them who must sit down at a table and decide that Rivers State is more important than personal interest and agenda. Till then we are not going to have peace.
“His Excellency ex-Governor Peter Odili, who is the father of this political dynamics, must sit at the table. His Excellency Rotimi Amaechi must sit at that table. Then Nyesom Wike, and Siminalayi Fubara must sit at that table.
“The President can superintend this if he really wants peace in Rivers State. And a decision must be made that this is how are going to be moving forward.”
Cole warned that failure to convene this meeting could lead to escalating conflicts, predicting, “Until that is done, as soon as Fubara’s time is about to end, you will see an all out war.”