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Rivers Crisis: Gov.Fubara Fires Back at Pro- Wike Lawmakers Over ‘Misconduct Allegations’

Published

1 month ago

Mar 18, 2025.

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Tension Rise in River State As Gov, Deputy Face Impeachment Threat
Lawmakers Accuse Governor, Deputy of Gross Misconduct; Request EFCC Probe of SSG
Senior Lawyers Warn of Constitutional Crisis

The Rivers State government has dismissed the impeachment move against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, stating that the state House of Assembly has not formally communicated any allegations of gross misconduct.

The assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule and dominated by 27 pro-Wike lawmakers, issued a notice on March 14 accusing Fubara and Odu of reckless expenditure, obstructing legislative processes, and making unauthorized appointments.

The notice, signed by 26 lawmakers, was reportedly transmitted to the governor and his deputy under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates that impeachment allegations must be signed by at least one-third of house members.

Speaker Amaewhule directed Fubara and Odu to respond within 14 days.

However, Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Barrister Joseph Johnson, dismissed the impeachment move, arguing that the letter was not properly addressed to the governor. Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt, Johnson accused the assembly of hindering Fubara’s efforts to implement the Supreme Court’s judgment on the state’s political crisis.

Johnson also criticized the assembly for contributing to the hardship faced by civil servants and pensioners due to the seizure of state funds.

He highlighted Fubara’s compliance with the court ruling by directing local government chairmen to hand over to their administrative heads. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has scheduled fresh local government elections for August 9, 2025.

This marks the second impeachment attempt against Fubara. The first, on October 30, 2023, led to widespread unrest, including the burning and demolition of sections of the assembly complex. Fubara alleged that he narrowly survived an assassination attempt during the crisis.

In a related development, the assembly has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo, over allegations of extra-budgetary spending and financial misconduct.

Legal Experts Warn of Constitutional Crisis

Senior lawyers have raised concerns over a looming constitutional crisis. Abeni Mohammed (SAN) emphasized that impeachment must follow due process through the state’s Chief Judge, who is required to form a panel to review the allegations.

Mohammed argued that the governor could challenge the impeachment in court, highlighting that the lawmakers themselves may have violated the constitution by adjourning indefinitely.

He criticized the Supreme Court for addressing issues outside its jurisdiction, particularly regarding the status of the defected lawmakers.

Similarly, Taiye Oniyide (SAN) urged restraint, stressing that both parties should prioritize the state’s welfare over personal conflicts. Oniyide suggested that former Governor Nyesom Wike may have tacitly supported the impeachment attempt through his recent statements.

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“This is pure political vendetta. Unfortunately, the people of Rivers suffer the most, as critical development is stalled. Governance should not be driven by bitterness,” he concluded.

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