The political landscape in Rivers State has taken a dramatic turn as the State House of Assembly has issued a formal notice of gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Nma Odu. If the impeachment process unfolds without legal hindrances, both officials could be removed from office by mid-July, paving the way for Speaker Martin Amaewhule to assume the role of acting governor.
Impeachment Scenarios Unfold
Sources indicate that while one option is the outright removal of both the governor and deputy, alternative resolutions could involve sparing the deputy governor or appointing a neutral administrator to manage the state temporarily. Under constitutional guidelines, the impeachment process can be completed within 120 days, and with 111 days remaining, legislators appear resolute in their bid to oust Fubara on allegations of gross misconduct.
Despite escalating tensions, the Rivers State Police Command has dismissed rumors that the residence of former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, was attacked or set ablaze.
Details of the Misconduct Allegations
The notice of misconduct, signed by 26 lawmakers on March 14, 2025, accuses Governor Fubara of multiple constitutional violations, including:
Unauthorized expenditure of public funds in contravention of Sections 120, 121(1)(2), and 122 of the Nigerian Constitution. Obstruction of legislative functions by hindering the House of Assembly from performing its duties. Appointing officials without seeking legislative approval. Withholding salaries and funds meant for the legitimate Rivers State House of Assembly and its clerk.
Similarly, Deputy Governor Odu is accused of complicity in constitutional violations, including failing to present the 2024 budget to the House and authorizing withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Fund without an approved appropriation law.
Governor and Deputy Given 14 Days to Respond
The Rivers Assembly has given both Fubara and Odu a 14-day window to respond to the allegations. Meanwhile, state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joseph Johnson, has condemned the impeachment attempt, stating that lawmakers are deliberately obstructing governance.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal professionals have urged the Rivers Assembly to adhere strictly to due process, emphasizing that impeachment is a constitutional process that requires adherence to Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. According to legal experts, Fubara has the right to challenge any unlawful actions in court.
Ethnic Tensions Emerge Amid Political Crisis
In a separate development, human rights activists and lawyers have demanded an apology from Wike over alleged derogatory remarks about the Ijaw ethnic group. His comments, labeling the Ijaw as a "minority of the minorities," have sparked outrage, with activists warning that such rhetoric could inflame ethnic tensions.
What Next for Rivers State?
With the impeachment process officially underway, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the political fate of Governor Fubara and his deputy. Whether the crisis leads to their removal or is resolved through legal and political negotiations remains to be seen.
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