Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has appealed for peace and calm from residents, following the commencement of impeachment proceedings against him by the state's House of Assembly. The governor broke his silence on the matter during a church service held on Saturday, January 11, 2026, to mark the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
Assembly Initiates Impeachment Process
The political temperature in Rivers State rose significantly on Thursday, January 8, 2026, when members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, during plenary, initiated an impeachment process against Governor Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. The lawmakers cited allegations of gross misconduct as the basis for their action.
This marks the third time the assembly has attempted to impeach Governor Fubara since he was elected into office in 2023, highlighting the persistent political instability in the oil-rich state.
Fubara's Response: Faith and Silence
Addressing the congregation at the church service, Governor Fubara assured the people that everything would be fine. He revealed that he had chosen to remain silent in the face of what he described as political distractions, drawing strength from his faith in God.
"I draw strength from my faith in God," the governor stated, who recently switched his political allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He also referenced a remark he made earlier at a New Year banquet, saying, "dogs bark when they do not understand."
Deputy Governor Appeals for Prayerful Support
Following the governor's address, Deputy Governor Professor Ngozi Odu, who read the first lesson at the service, was asked to speak. She urged the people of Rivers State to continue to uphold the administration in prayer, describing their support as the pillar sustaining the government.
Odu called on residents to heed the admonition of the Dean of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop Blessing, that every action would be remembered in due time. Her appeal underscores the administration's view that spiritual backing is crucial in navigating the current political storm.
Reactions from Elders and Political Figures
The impeachment move has drawn reactions from various quarters. Rivers State Elders have reportedly called on the lawmakers to halt the proceedings, arguing that the impeachment lacks substance and is driven by personal interests rather than the state's welfare. The elders' forum emphasized its commitment to peace, unity, and constitutional democracy in Rivers State.
In a related development, former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, commented that only spiritual intervention could save Governor Fubara from being impeached. Fayose blamed Fubara for the ongoing crisis and urged him to pursue a sincere reconciliation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who is a key political figure from the state.
The situation remains fluid as stakeholders watch for the next steps from the State Assembly and the response from the governor's camp. The call for calm from the top suggests an attempt to de-escalate tensions while the political maneuvering continues behind the scenes.
