Rivers State Assembly loyal to Wike Moves to Impeach Governor Fubara and Deputy Over Alleged Misconduct

The Rivers State House of Assembly has taken a decisive step toward the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, citing allegations of gross misconduct. On March 14, 2025, 26 out of 32 Assembly members signed a notice of impeachment, accusing the governor of constitutional violations, particularly in the mismanagement of public funds.

The lawmakers alleged that Governor Fubara approved expenditures from the Rivers state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund without an appropriation law, an act they claim contravenes Section 120 of the Nigerian Constitution. They also accused him of obstructing legislative activities, failing to present the 2024 Appropriation Bill in accordance with constitutional provisions, and disregarding court rulings mandating him to engage with the legislature on budgetary matters.

Tensions Escalate Over Budget Presentation and Legislative Control

The impeachment move follows weeks of growing discord between the executive and legislative arms of government. Governor Fubara’s initial attempt to present the 2025 budget on March 12, 2025, was met with resistance as he was reportedly denied access to the Assembly complex. In response, he rescheduled the budget presentation for March 19, 2025, asserting his commitment to constitutional governance.

The ongoing battle for control of the legislature has further complicated matters. The Rivers State Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, claims that Fubara’s administration has repeatedly undermined its authority. Lawmakers accuse the governor of appointing officials without their required confirmation and withholding salaries of certain legislators, further deepening the rift between the two arms of government.

Opposition and Political Reactions to the Impeachment Notice

The impeachment process has sparked outrage among political stakeholders, with the Nigeria Opposition Lawmakers Coalition condemning it as a political maneuver orchestrated by pro-Wike legislators to weaken the governor’s administration. The coalition’s spokesperson, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, dismissed the notice as illegal, arguing that the lawmakers had failed to comply with a Supreme Court ruling that mandates them to receive the budget from the governor.

Meanwhile, the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has thrown its weight behind the impeachment process. APC Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tony Okocha, criticized Fubara’s leadership, labeling his administration as “clueless” and unfit to govern. Okocha further accused the governor of disregarding legal protocols and attempting to rule without legislative oversight.

Rivers State Government Pushes Back, Declares Impeachment Illegal

In response to the impeachment move, the Rivers State government has rejected the accusations, arguing that the 27 lawmakers who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC lack the constitutional authority to initiate impeachment proceedings. Commissioner for Information, Joseph Johnson, cited Section 109(1g) of the Nigerian Constitution, which stipulates that lawmakers who defect from their original party automatically lose their seats.

Johnson described the impeachment notice as a desperate attempt by political adversaries to destabilize the Rivers state. He assured that Governor Fubara would not be intimidated by what he termed an “illegitimate” legislative action, warning that any attempts to remove the governor would be met with strong resistance from the people of Rivers State.

Uncertain Future as Political Crisis Deepens

With tensions at an all-time high, the political climate in Rivers State remains volatile. Analysts fear that the ongoing power struggle between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State Assembly could lead to a constitutional crisis, ultimately disrupting governance and public service delivery.

As both sides dig in their heels, the coming weeks are expected to be crucial in determining the outcome of this political standoff. While the lawmakers push ahead with their impeachment efforts, the governor and his supporters continue to resist, setting the stage for a potentially prolonged legal and political battle that could shape the future of Rivers State.