Rivers State House of Assembly has reconvened unexpectedly to initiate impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu.
The assembly’s sudden action has sent ripples through the state’s political landscape, raising questions about the stability of its leadership.
On March 16, 2025, the assembly served a notice of alleged misconduct to both executives. The notice, in compliance with Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, reads:
“In compliance with Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and other extant laws, we the undersigned members of the Rivers State House of Assembly hereby forward to you a Notice of Gross Misconduct by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State in the performance of the functions of her office.” This development follows a series of escalating tensions between the assembly and the executive.
Notably, on March 12, Governor Fubara’s attempt to present the 2025 budget was thwarted when security personnel barred his entry to the assembly complex, citing a lack of official communication.
Fubara contended that he had informed Speaker Martin Amaewhule both via letter and phone, highlighting the deepening rift.
The assembly’s grievances against the governor and his deputy are multifaceted.
Lawmakers accuse them of obstructing the execution of a Supreme Court judgment, particularly concerning the budget presentation.
They also allege that the governor’s aides mishandled official communications, forwarding budget letters via WhatsApp, which they deemed “awkward, unprofessional, and embarrassing.”
In response to the impeachment notice, supporters of Governor Fubara have cried foul, labeling the move as politically driven.
They argue that the governor’s democratic mandate is being undermined and warn against any actions that might destabilize the state’s governance.
Complicating matters, the Rivers Restoration Movement (RRM) has weighed in, stating that should the impeachment proceed, it is imperative for another Ijaw individual to assume the governorship.
This stance underscores the ethnic sensitivities intertwined with the political upheaval.
As the assembly moves forward with impeachment proceedings, all eyes are on the unfolding political drama in Rivers State.
The coming days are poised to be critical in determining the state’s leadership trajectory and political equilibrium.
