Rivers Lawmakers Vow to Resume Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara and Deputy Odu

 



The lawmakers, during a press briefing held in Port Harcourt on Friday, insisted that the process is strictly constitutional and not driven by ethnic considerations. They accused the governor of gross misconduct, including unauthorized expenditures, failure to present the 2026 budget for proper legislative scrutiny, extra-budgetary spending, and actions that undermine the legislature, such as the alleged demolition of the state Assembly complex.

This development comes amid fluctuating support within the House. The impeachment process was initially initiated on January 8, 2026, when the Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, served notices of gross misconduct to both the governor and his deputy. However, earlier this week, some lawmakers had publicly withdrawn their backing, calling for political dialogue and amicable resolution to avert further instability in the state.

In a dramatic turnaround, four lawmakers who had previously advocated for a peaceful settlement made a U-turn during today's briefing. They cited the governor's alleged lack of remorse and failure to address the allegations as reasons for recommitting to the impeachment drive. This reversal has strengthened the position of the majority pro-impeachment faction, which insists there is no alternative to following constitutional provisions under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The Assembly's spokesperson emphasized that the move is not personal or politically motivated but a necessary response to perceived threats to democracy and constitutional order. They warned against attempts to intimidate members, including alleged use of agencies like the EFCC.

Governor Fubara has yet to formally receive or respond to the latest developments in detail, though previous statements from his camp have dismissed the process as politically orchestrated. The ongoing feud between the governor and his predecessor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike (whose loyalists dominate the Assembly), continues to fuel tensions, with stakeholders warning of potential disruptions to governance ahead of future elections.

As the House vows to press ahead without retracing steps, the situation remains fluid, with calls for intervention from traditional rulers, political parties, and national figures. Observers note that this marks the third attempt at impeachment proceedings against the governor since he assumed office in 2023.

The coming days will be critical as the Assembly prepares next steps, potentially including further deliberations and votes on the charges. Rivers residents and political watchers await further developments in what has become one of Nigeria's most watched sub-national crises.

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