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Rivers State Assembly Confirms Ongoing Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara and Deputy
Despite recent speculation suggesting otherwise, the Rivers State House of Assembly has officially confirmed that the impeachment process involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, is actively ongoing and has not been suspended. This announcement was made to dispel rumors claiming the proceedings had been put on hold.
Assembly’s Official Communication
Enemi George, who chairs the House Committee on Information, Petitions, and Complaints, issued a statement affirming that the impeachment process, initiated on Thursday, January 8, 2026, is being conducted in full compliance with the Nigerian Constitution. The Assembly assured the public that all steps taken are transparent and legally sound.
“The Rivers State House of Assembly wishes to inform the citizens of Rivers State that the impeachment process commenced on Thursday, January 8, 2026, is proceeding in strict accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”
Allegations and Legal Framework
The Assembly revealed that formal allegations of gross misconduct have been officially served to both the Governor and Deputy Governor. These notices, issued under Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, were delivered by the Speaker of the House, Martins Amaewhule, who is currently awaiting their formal replies.
“Notices detailing allegations of gross misconduct pursuant to Section 188 of the Constitution have been forwarded to the Governor and Deputy Governor by the Speaker of the House, and we await their responses.”
Legislative Duty and Constitutional Authority
Members of the Assembly reiterated their constitutional mandate to enforce accountability and uphold the rule of law by addressing any violations committed by public officials within the state. They emphasized their dedication to executing this responsibility with utmost diligence to ensure transparent governance.
Charges Detailed Against Governor Fubara
The impeachment notice enumerates seven distinct allegations against Governor Fubara. These include the contentious demolition of the Assembly complex, unauthorized spending beyond the approved budget, withholding funds allocated to the Assembly Service Commission, and an alleged disregard for a Supreme Court ruling mandating the financial autonomy of the legislature. These accusations underscore serious governance issues that the Assembly is addressing through the impeachment process.
Broader Context and Potential Impact
Impeachment cases at the state level in Nigeria are uncommon and often reflect intense political conflicts. The situation in Rivers State is particularly significant due to the prominence of the officials involved and the severity of the charges. According to the Nigerian Institute of Legislative Studies, only about 3% of state governors have faced formal impeachment proceedings over the last ten years, highlighting the exceptional nature of this case.
As the impeachment process continues, political observers and residents of Rivers State are attentively following the developments, aware of the potential consequences for the state’s political landscape and governance stability.
