Political tension has gripped Rivers State following the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.
The move, spearheaded by the Rivers State House of Assembly, has raised concerns over the state’s stability, with fears of a potential political crisis looming.
Impeachment Notice Issued
The Speaker of the House, Martins Amaewhule, issued separate notices of gross misconduct to Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu on Monday, March 17, 2025. The notice followed a letter dated March 14, 2025, and signed by 26 lawmakers, who accused the governor of multiple constitutional breaches.
The charges against Fubara include the reckless and unconstitutional expenditure of public funds, obstruction of the legislative arm of government, and unauthorized appointments without legislative confirmation.
Additionally, the Assembly accused him of seizing the salaries and allowances of lawmakers, including that of the Clerk of the House.
A similar notice was served on Deputy Governor Odu, accusing her of complicity in approving withdrawals from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund without an appropriation law.
The lawmakers claim that the deputy governor failed in her constitutional duty to ensure proper governance alongside the governor.
Ijaw Groups Warn Against Impeachment
The impeachment move has triggered strong opposition from Ijaw groups, including the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC).
These groups have issued warnings that any attempt to remove Fubara could lead to widespread unrest and threaten the stability of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Ijaw leaders argue that Fubara’s impeachment would not only violate the people’s mandate but also escalate tensions, potentially affecting oil production in the state.
Some members of these groups have vowed to resist any attempt to remove the governor through what they perceive as politically motivated tactics.
Tinubu’s Intervention and PANDEF’s Reconciliation Efforts
Amid growing tensions, President Bola Tinubu has intervened by engaging the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) in reconciliation efforts. Last week, PANDEF leaders, led by former Akwa Ibom State Governor Victor Attah and King Alfred Diete-Spiff, met with Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
The President acknowledged the importance of the Niger Delta to the nation’s economy, urging both parties to prioritize peace. “Yes, Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg. We must care for the goose; otherwise, we lose the golden egg,” Tinubu stated.
He appealed to PANDEF leaders to mediate between the warring factions, stressing the need to uphold court rulings and resolve disputes amicably. However, while PANDEF leaders managed to meet with Fubara, attempts to reach former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have so far been unsuccessful.
Legislative Standoff Over Budget Presentation
Last week, efforts by Governor Fubara to present the state’s budget, in compliance with a Supreme Court ruling legitimizing the Amaewhule-led Assembly, were met with resistance. The lawmakers, who are largely loyal to Wike, rejected the budget presentation, further exacerbating the political impasse.
Wike, during a recent media interview, dismissed threats from Ijaw groups regarding potential attacks on oil installations. He also endorsed the impeachment move, encouraging lawmakers to proceed if they deemed it necessary.
Government Response and Economic Implications
In response to the allegations, Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joseph Johnson, accused the lawmakers of deliberately frustrating governance. He warned that the ongoing crisis could have severe economic consequences for civil servants, retirees, and the general public.
“It is clear that with the current actions of the Assembly, civil servants, retirees, and people of the state will face unimaginable economic hardships, as the government will be unable to pay salaries, pensions, and other obligations,” Johnson stated.
He further noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Accountant-General of the Federation have been instructed to withhold revenue allocations to the state until the Supreme Court judgment is fully implemented. According to him, this decision could cripple government operations if not resolved swiftly.
Next Steps and Potential Fallout
Under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution, the House of Assembly has 14 days to decide whether to proceed with an investigation into the allegations.
If two-thirds of the House members vote in favor, a panel will be constituted to probe the accusations against the governor and his deputy.
The unfolding drama in Rivers State highlights the deep-rooted political rift between Fubara and Wike, who was instrumental in Fubara’s rise to power but has since become his fiercest critic. Political analysts warn that the crisis could lead to a prolonged standoff, further destabilizing the state’s governance.
As stakeholders await further developments, all eyes remain on the House of Assembly’s next move and the response from Governor Fubara and his supporters. The outcome of this battle could have far-reaching implications for the state’s political landscape and governance.
For now, Rivers State remains on edge as the impeachment threat looms large, with many hoping for a peaceful resolution to the escalating crisis.
