Tonye Cole, the former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with the recently concluded local government elections in the state.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program on Tuesday, Cole stated that while the electoral process is now complete, it could have been conducted in a significantly different and better manner.
He emphasised the importance of adhering to democratic principles and respecting the will of the people in any electoral exercise.
Cole highlighted concerns about the potential dangers of ignoring established laws and rules of democracy, warning that setting arbitrary standards undermines the entire democratic system.
He pointed out that the continuous nature of democracy requires constant vigilance and commitment to proper procedures. While acknowledging that the election has concluded, the former candidate argued for a more holistic approach in future exercises, one that actively engages citizens and helps them understand how local governance directly impacts their well-being.
Despite his strong reservations about the conduct of the polls, Cole advocated for moving forward while learning from the experience.
He stressed the need for improved electoral processes that prioritise transparency, inclusivity, and public engagement to strengthen democratic institutions in Rivers State and across Nigeria. His comments reflect ongoing concerns about electoral integrity at the local government level and the importance of maintaining public trust in democratic processes.
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cc: Daily Post NG
