Fresh political tension erupted in Rivers State on Thursday as the House of Assembly formally kicked off impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, over alleged gross misconduct and constitutional violations.
The dramatic development unfolded during plenary at the Assembly complex in Port Harcourt, where lawmakers read out detailed allegations against the state’s top two executives, setting the stage for a potentially historic political showdown.
Lawmakers Move Against Governor Fubara
Presiding over the session, Speaker Martins Amaewhule listened as the Majority Leader, Major Jack, formally presented a notice of impeachment against Governor Fubara, citing Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
According to Jack, the impeachment notice—endorsed by 26 lawmakers—lists seven major allegations bordering on abuse of office and disregard for constitutional provisions.
Among the accusations leveled against the governor are:
* The alleged demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex
* Authorizing expenditures not captured in the approved budget
* Withholding statutory funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission
* Ignoring and refusing to implement Supreme Court judgments affirming the financial autonomy of the House of Assembly
After the allegations were read, Speaker Amaewhule announced that the impeachment notice would be officially served on Governor Fubara within seven days, in line with constitutional procedure.
Deputy Governor Dragged Into the Storm
Moments after the governor’s case was presented, the Assembly shifted focus to Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu.
The Deputy Leader of the House, Linda Stewart, tabled a separate notice accusing the deputy governor of multiple acts of gross misconduct.
Stewart outlined a string of allegations, including claims that Odu:
* Engaged in reckless and unconstitutional use of public funds
* Actively obstructed the Rivers State House of Assembly from carrying out its legislative responsibilities
* Colluded to allow unauthorized individuals to occupy government offices without due screening
* Sought budget approval from an alternative group rather than the legally constituted Rivers Assembly
* Withheld salaries and allowances due to lawmakers and the Assembly Service Commission
What Happens Next?
With both impeachment notices now formally introduced, the political atmosphere in Rivers State has become increasingly charged.
The coming days are expected to be critical, as constitutional timelines will determine whether the allegations progress into a full investigation or spark further legal and political battles.
Also Read: Rivers Assembly Begins Impeachment Process Against Governor Fubara, Deputy
As events continue to unfold, all eyes remain fixed on the Rivers State House of Assembly, where the fate of the governor and his deputy may soon be decided.
