… Demands ‘Unreserved Apology’
The people of Bille kingdom in Degema Local Government Area have taken a swipe at the APC governorship candidate, Arch. Tonye Cole over his unpleasant remarks about Bille kingdom at a recent radio program “View Point” on Rhythm 93.7FM
Cole, in the said program accused Bille kingdom, especially the youths of carrying arms and ammunition. “Bille is the heart of bunkering and there are young people in Bille with more guns and arms more than anything else you can ever believe,” parts of Tonye Cole’s statement on the radio program.
The community wondered why the APC flagbearer should descend on a peaceful community, rather than concentrating on his campaigns, adding that his brazen display of hate, bias and cheap blackmail against the ancient Bille kingdom is unfortunate.
Alabo(Dr) Ibitamino Minapakama, vice chairman of Bille Chiefs Council, who signed the press release said it was really disappointing for the APC governorship candidate to make such utterances, noting that Pastor Tonye Cole visited Bille town for his sensitization program without any form of violence or display of gunfire. According to the release, Cole worshiped at St. Mary’s Cathedral, CAC (GBC), Bille, where he knelt down and prayed.
The community further said it is worrisome to see the APC governorship candidate trying to tarnish the image of Bille kingdom known for its peaceful disposition, pointing out that the presence of the 29th Battalion Nigerian Army Tactical Headquarters and the Nigerian Police is a clear indication that the APC flagbearer is in a world of imagination.
As the most peaceful Ijaw community in Rivers State, it condemns the attack on Bille kingdom by Pastor Arch. Tonye Cole and similarly gives him a-48hours ultimatum within which to make public withdrawal of his malicious statements and render unreserved apologies to the Amanyanabo-in-Council, Chiefs and the people of Bille kingdom, saying that if he fails to adhere to the demand, it will attract legal action.
Chiefs present at the briefing include, Alabo (Dr) Ibitamino D. Minapakama (OpuAngula XVII), Alabo Ibiba Kombonimi, Alabo Victor Thompson, Alabo Boma R. Dappa,Alabo Reginald Dei, Alabo Bennett Okporki, Alabo Da-erego D. Dappa, Alabo Erekosima Alalibo, Alabo (Elect) Isaac Bregbo, Alabo (Elect) Napoleon Hezekiah, Alabo (Elect) Egila Luckyman and a host of several elders and youths