By Joke Kujenya
THE RIVERS State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, citing allegations of gross misconduct.
The move signals escalating political tensions in the state amid disputes over governance and constitutional obligations.
The Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, issued a formal notice detailing the allegations, which they claim align with provisions of the Nigerian Constitution.
Martins Wachukwu, special assistant on media to the Speaker, confirmed the development on Monday.
According to a statement signed by members of the Assembly, their actions are in accordance with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The crisis deepened following accusations that Governor Fubara obstructed the re-presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill—an essential requirement following a Supreme Court judgment.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Enemi George, addressed the press on Sunday, alleging that the governor’s failure to comply with due process has hindered budgetary proceedings crucial for the state’s fiscal operations.
George criticized Fubara for attempting to sway public opinion by portraying lawmakers as obstructive.
He challenged the governor to provide evidence of a letter he purportedly sent to the Assembly requesting to present the budget.
“In a media interview last week, the governor claimed he sent a letter to the Assembly regarding the appropriation bill,” George stated.
“However, we have no record of such correspondence. His aides’ claim that it was forwarded via WhatsApp is unprofessional and unacceptable.”
George further dismissed the notion that the governor’s letter was misplaced, emphasizing that if such a letter existed, an official acknowledgment would be on record.
The crisis also extends beyond the budget impasse.
George accused the governor of disregarding the Supreme Court’s judgment, which invalidated several state commissioner appointments.
The Assembly reportedly urged Fubara to submit a new list of nominees, but the request was ignored.
George also alleged that attempts to deliver official correspondence to the Government House were met with resistance, with staff being assaulted and turned away.
“Even when we used a courier service, there was no response,” he claimed.
Furthermore, the Assembly accused the governor of directing state ministries, departments, and agencies to sever communication with lawmakers, a move George condemned as a violation of the separation of powers.
He also claimed that the Speaker’s residence and the Assembly Complex have reportedly been attacked and demolished, heightening fears of political persecution.
Lawmakers lamented the loss of personal belongings and accused the executive branch of orchestrating these attacks to weaken legislative independence, George added.
“Our chamber was burnt down, our quarters invaded, and our allowances have been withheld for over a year and a half,” George stated.
“Yet, despite these adversities, we remain committed to serving the people of Rivers State.”
As the crisis deepens, concerns grow over its impact on governance.
George highlighted that pensioners, teachers, and public institutions are suffering due to the budget impasse.
“The governor is playing politics with the livelihoods of Rivers people. We urge him to act in the best interests of the state,” he concluded.
