The political landscape in Rivers State has been thrown into turmoil as the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly rejected the impeachment proceedings initiated against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Nma Odu. The ruling party labeled the move as "untenable" and a potential source of destabilisation for the oil-rich state.
Impeachment Proceedings Officially Commence
On Thursday, January 8, 2026, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly took a decisive step by beginning impeachment proceedings against the state's top two officials. The action, presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, is rooted in allegations of gross misconduct and financial irregularities.
The Majority Leader, Major Jack, formally read a notice of allegations against Governor Fubara, invoking Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution. The charges, signed by twenty-six lawmakers, were outlined in seven key points and are expected to be served to the governor within a seven-day window.
Key Allegations Against Governor Fubara
The list of accusations presented by the Assembly is severe and multifaceted. They include the controversial demolition of the State Assembly Complex and engaging in extra-budgetary spending. Furthermore, the governor is accused of withholding funds allocated to the Assembly Service Commission and refusing to obey a Supreme Court ruling concerning the financial autonomy of the legislative house.
Deputy Governor Also Faces Charges
In a parallel move, Deputy Leader Linda Stewart presented a separate notice against Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu. The allegations against her include reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds and obstructing the House of Assembly from performing its constitutional duties. She is also accused of conspiring to allow unauthorised persons to occupy offices without proper legislative screening and diverting budgetary approval processes away from the legitimate Assembly.
APC's Firm Stance and Escalating Political Feud
The APC's swift condemnation of the impeachment process adds a significant layer to the ongoing crisis. The party's warning highlights fears that the political manoeuvring could plunge the state into deeper instability. This development occurs against the backdrop of a renewed and very public dispute between Governor Fubara and the immediate past governor of the state, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The two political figures have been engaged in a war of words since the Christmas holiday period.
The impeachment proceedings mark a dramatic escalation in the political tensions within Rivers State. With both the executive and legislative arms of government in a fierce standoff, the coming days are poised to be critical in determining the future of the state's leadership and governance.
