Former All Progressives Congress (APC) Rivers State governorship candidate Tonye Cole has expressed disapproval of the recently concluded local government elections in Rivers State. Speaking on the Arise Television program ‘Prime Time’ on September 9, 2025, Cole said the elections could have been conducted better and in a more transparent manner.
Cole remarked, “I don’t agree with the way the elections were done, but it is done; all we have to do is move on to the next one.” He emphasized that continuous democracy requires respect for democratic laws and processes, cautioning against setting dangerous precedents that could undermine public trust.
He questioned the timing and legitimacy of the elections, given that they were held under the administration of a sole administrator appointed amid a state of emergency, arguing that such a context does not provide a stable environment for fair elections.
Cole also highlighted broader concerns about democratic practices in the state and called for more holistic engagement with the electorate to foster understanding about the importance of local governance.
His comments come amid ongoing political tensions in Rivers State following the nullification of a previous local government election by the Supreme Court and the suspension of the state’s governor and legislative arm.
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