Rivers Assembly Moves to Impeach Gov Fubara, Deputy as Political Crisis Deepens

Rivers Assembly Moves to Impeach Gov Fubara, Deputy as Political Crisis Deepens

The Rivers State House of Assembly has formally commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Oduh, marking a major escalation in the lingering political crisis in the state.

The process was initiated on Thursday during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, and broadcast live on Channels Television. At the sitting, the Majority Leader, Hon. Major Jack, read out a notice of allegations accusing the governor of gross misconduct, which lawmakers said contravenes provisions of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended).

A total of 26 lawmakers endorsed the notice against Governor Fubara. Speaker Amaewhule announced that the allegations would be formally served on the governor within seven days, in line with constitutional requirements.

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Similarly, the Deputy Majority Leader, Linda Stewart, read a separate notice of allegations against Deputy Governor Ngozi Oduh, also accusing her of gross misconduct and constitutional violations.

The impeachment move is the latest development in the prolonged power struggle between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State. Key points of contention include allegations of extra-budgetary spending, withholding of funds meant for the legislature, and the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, which has remained a flashpoint in the crisis.

The situation has also been linked to the broader political rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, who has accused the governor of breaching political agreements aimed at restoring stability in the state.

Under Section 188 of the Constitution, the impeachment process requires that the governor and deputy be given the opportunity to respond to the allegations, after which a panel of inquiry may be constituted. Any eventual removal from office would require the support of at least two-thirds of Assembly members.

Political observers warn that the deepening crisis could further disrupt governance, budgetary processes and legislative-executive relations in one of Nigeria’s most economically strategic states.

Rivers Assembly Moves to Impeach Gov Fubara, Deputy as Political Crisis Deepens