The Rivers State House of Assembly has taken a significant step towards impeaching Governor Siminalayi Fubara, serving him a notice of misconduct that could potentially lead to his removal from office.
The notice, signed by 26 members of the House, accuses the governor of various constitutional breaches and infractions, including reckless and unconstitutional expenditure of public funds, hindering the Assembly’s activities, and appointing individuals to government positions without required screening and confirmation.
The Assembly also alleges that Governor Fubara seized salaries, allowances, and funds meant for the House, contrary to Section 121(3) of the Constitution.
Furthermore, the notice accuses Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu of complicity in the alleged misconduct, claiming she supported and connived with the governor to disobey the Federal High Court’s order.
In response to the notice, Governor Fubara and his deputy have 14 days to respond to the allegations. However, the state Commissioner for Information, Joseph Johnson, has denied receiving the notice, stating that the lawmakers are bent on removing the governor from power.
Johnson claimed that Governor Fubara has shown commitment to peace and is willing to implement the Supreme Court’s judgment. He also recalled that the governor was denied access to the Legislative Quarters to present the 2025 budget, despite formally notifying the Speaker and making phone calls.
The development has sparked concerns about the future of Rivers State, with the Commissioner warning of a “gloomy period” ahead. The crisis has also drawn reactions from various stakeholders, including the Pan-Niger Delta Youths Forum, which has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure lasting peace and security in the state.