A Political Storm in Rivers State: Is Fubara's Move a Safe Bet?
In a recent turn of events, Governor Siminalayi Fubara's decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked controversy and divided opinions within the party's ranks. Former APC governorship candidate, Tonye Cole, has boldly stated that Fubara's choice to align with a specific faction within the party may put him in a precarious position.
But here's where it gets controversial... Cole, in an interview with Channels Television, emphasized that the Emeka Beke-led group is the legitimate leadership of the APC in Rivers State. He questioned the validity of Fubara's move, stating that the governor's defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC was welcomed by the national leadership, but the key issue lies in the local recognition.
Fubara's journey into the APC began in December 2025, a move that was publicly celebrated by the party's national leaders. However, the twist came when he received his APC membership card from Tony Okocha, who leads a faction of the party in Rivers. This is where the controversy deepens, as Cole argues that Okocha's faction is not legally recognized by the APC.
"Who is issuing Fubara his membership card?" Cole asks. "Tony Okocha's faction is not legally sanctioned by the APC, and that's the crux of the problem." He further explains that while Fubara is recognized nationally as an APC member, the local recognition is crucial for his political standing in Rivers State.
And this is the part most people miss... Cole believes that Fubara's defection was a smart political move, but his alignment with the wrong faction could potentially undermine his position. "He should come to us," Cole suggests, "We have the legal standing to recognize and welcome him. He's not safe where he is."
Cole's warning is a stark reminder of the 2019 election crisis, where a court barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing the APC's candidates in Rivers State. He urges the APC to learn from past mistakes and ensure a unified front to avoid similar pitfalls in the future.
So, is Fubara's move a calculated risk or a potential political misstep? The debate rages on, and it's up to the people of Rivers State to decide. What do you think? Is Fubara's alignment with the Okocha faction a safe bet, or is he walking into a political quagmire? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
