The Rivers State House of Assembly has commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, escalating political tensions in Nigeria’s oil-rich South South region.
The move follows weeks of escalating disputes between the governor and lawmakers over budgetary and administrative issues.
At a plenary session on Thursday, lawmakers adopted a resolution to investigate alleged gross misconduct by Fubara, triggering a constitutional process that could culminate in his removal from office if sufficient evidence is presented.
The impeachment motion, sponsored by Hon. Victor Oko Jumbo, cited alleged infractions including “unilateral appointment of aides without legislative approval” and purported breaches in the management of state finances.
Addressing reporters after the session, Oko Jumbo said the legislature was acting within its constitutional mandate. “We are guided by the laws of this land; this is about good governance and accountability to the people of Rivers State,” he said.
The resolution to initiate proceedings was passed after a closed-door caucus, with lawmakers in appears to have mustered the required one-third majority to proceed. According to the House leadership, a committee of inquiry will be established to examine evidence and report back within a set timeframe.
Amaewhule announced during the session, broadcast live on national television: “The notice will be served to Fubara in the next seven days.”
Deputy Majority Leader Linda Stewart followed with charges against Odu, alleging “reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds” and “obstruction of the House of Assembly from performing her constitutional duties.”
Other claims against Odu included “conniving to allow unauthorised persons to occupy offices without proper screening” and “seizure of salaries and allowances accruing to the RSHA and the Assembly Service Commission.”
The proceedings invoke Section 188 of Nigeria’s constitution, amid ongoing rivalries in the southern state, though Fubara’s office has yet to respond publicly to the allegations.
In response, supporters of Governor Fubara have decried the impeachment move as politically motivated. A statement signed by Mr. Uwemedimo Nwokocha, Chairman of the Fubara Support Group, accused lawmakers of engaging in a “vendetta” against the governor. “This is a bid to destabilise the state leadership through smokescreens and unfounded allegations,” he said, urging constituents to remain calm.
Fubara, elected in 2023 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has in recent months faced sustained criticism from sections of the state legislature over his administrative style and handling of the state budget. Tensions peaked last month when the Assembly accused the governor of withholding oil revenue allocations — an allegation Fubara has denied.
The constitutionally prescribed impeachment process requires that the allegations be investigated by a panel, and if upheld, two-thirds of lawmakers would need to vote in favour of removal. Legal experts say the proceedings could be lengthy and contested in court.
