The political crisis in Rivers State has escalated as the House of Assembly has formally initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Ordu. The impeachment notices, dated March 14, 2025, accuse the governor of gross misconduct and his deputy of misbehavior.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, confirmed that 26 members of the House signed the impeachment notice, alleging that Governor Fubara violated sections 120, 121, and 122 of the Nigerian Constitution. The Assembly claimed the governor had frustrated efforts to re-present the 2025 appropriation bill, a move mandated by a recent Supreme Court judgment.
Fubara, however, denied the allegations, describing the claims as politically motivated. The governor argued that he remains committed to obeying the Supreme Court’s judgment and has taken significant steps to comply, including dissolving local councils and announcing fresh elections for local government areas.
Fubara’s Response and Calls for Rethink
Reacting through the state’s Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, Fubara called for a reconsideration of the political crisis to avoid deepening instability in the state. The governor expressed concern that the Assembly’s actions could plunge Rivers State into economic, social, and political turmoil.
Johnson also accused the lawmakers of misrepresenting facts, emphasizing that the governor was ready to re-present the budget but had been obstructed by the Assembly’s actions.
The Assembly has adjourned legislative activities indefinitely, leaving the state in a tense political atmosphere. Observers believe the crisis is a result of internal political disagreements within the ruling party, with speculation about the influence of former governor Nyesom Wike.
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