The political turmoil surrounding Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has encountered significant resistance as key stakeholders within the state voice their opposition. In a notable development, leaders and residents of Evo Constituency I have openly rejected the impeachment plot being orchestrated against the governor, declaring the move as having already failed.
Impeachment Effort Described as 'Dead on Arrival'
During a gathering organized by the Evo Unity Forum on January 10, 2026, a prominent ally of Governor Fubara, Chijioke Ihunwo, strongly condemned the impeachment proceedings. Ihunwo, the former Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, asserted that the attempt to remove the governor was "dead on arrival." He urged the people of Evo Kingdom and all residents to remain calm and not be distracted by the political maneuvers, focusing instead on peace and future development.
Ihunwo directly addressed the role of the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, who is an indigene of Evo. He argued that the Speaker's actions did not reflect the collective interest of the people of Rivers State but were driven by the narrow ambitions of a single individual. "It is regrettable that an Evo son would be associated with actions capable of destabilizing what I described as the people-centered and compassionate administration of Governor Fubara," Ihunwo stated.
Community Urged to Unite and Prepare for Future Elections
The former council chairman called for unity and political awareness among the residents of Evo Constituency I. He emphasized the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability in Rivers State for continued progress and good governance.
Looking ahead, Ihunwo also encouraged all eligible voters to take concrete steps to participate in the democratic process. He specifically advised them to ensure their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) were ready for future elections. He called for sustained support for both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
Impeachment Plot Loses Momentum as Lawmakers Withdraw
This public rejection from a key constituency adds to the growing setbacks for the impeachment plot. Reports indicate that the process has been losing momentum, with several lawmakers withdrawing their support.
It was earlier reported that two lawmakers, Hon. Sylvanus Nwankwo (Omuma State Constituency) and Hon. Peter Abbey (Degema State Constituency), announced their withdrawal from the move at a press conference on Monday, January 12. They cited appeals from respected leaders and a desire for peace and dialogue.
With these latest withdrawals, a total of four out of the 26 legislators who initially endorsed the notice of alleged gross misconduct have now distanced themselves from the impeachment process. Furthermore, it has been revealed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is yet to receive any formal impeachment notice despite the proceedings initiated by lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The political crisis, which stems from the fallout between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now appears to be shifting towards calls for reconciliation, mediated by the APC and traditional rulers, as the impeachment push falters in the face of growing internal and community opposition.
