Rivers APC Faults State Assembly Over Fubara Impeachment Move, Warns of Political Instability

A faction within the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticised the Rivers State House of Assembly over its decision to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. The party camp warned that the move poses serious risks to political stability in the state and could have far-reaching consequences for the APC’s unity and future in Rivers State.

In a press statement issued on Friday, the group expressed deep concern over the unfolding events at the Assembly, describing the impeachment effort as ill-timed and potentially destabilising at a moment when the state requires calm governance and political maturity.

APC Raises Alarm Over Impeachment Process

The statement, signed by the faction’s spokesperson, Darlington Nwauju, said the group had carefully reviewed the circumstances surrounding the Assembly’s decision to proceed with impeachment. According to the APC camp, the process appeared to be a coordinated political manoeuvre rather than a genuine legislative exercise in the public interest.

The group expressed disappointment that some lawmakers, including those aligned with the APC, were allegedly participating in what it termed a “choreographed legislative coup d’état.” It argued that such actions run contrary to the collective interest of the party and undermine its growth and development within Rivers State.

The APC further warned that the impeachment drive could deepen internal divisions and erode public confidence in democratic institutions, especially if it is perceived as being driven by political calculations rather than constitutional necessity.

Concerns Over Constitutional Interpretation and Precedent

While acknowledging that the Rivers State House of Assembly possesses constitutional authority to initiate impeachment proceedings, the APC faction stressed that the process is inherently subjective. It noted that the definition of “gross misconduct” under Section 188 of the Constitution remains open to interpretation and is often influenced by political considerations.

The party maintained that, regardless of how allegations are framed, they remain subject to scrutiny in the court of public opinion. It cautioned that proceeding on such a contentious path could set a dangerous precedent, with long-term implications for governance and political stability in the state.

Describing the development as a troubling signal for the party’s future, the APC warned that the impeachment move could weaken its standing in Rivers State and negatively affect its health and survival as a political force.

Call for Judicial Compliance and National Intervention

In its statement, the APC camp also called on the Chief Judge of Rivers State to respect an interim injunction that restrains him from receiving or acting on resolutions related to the impeachment process. The group referenced Suit No. OYHC/7/CS/2026, which it said was intended to preserve due process and prevent further escalation.

Additionally, the faction appealed to the national leadership of the APC to intervene urgently. It urged the National Working Committee to activate internal conflict-resolution mechanisms provided under Article 21(b)(iii) of the party’s 2022 Constitution, as amended.

According to the group, swift intervention by the party’s national leadership is necessary to avert an embarrassing situation and to safeguard the APC’s integrity and cohesion in Rivers State.