The political landscape in Rivers State has entered a critical phase as the State House of Assembly has officially confirmed the delivery of impeachment notices against the state's top officials.
Assembly Confirms Constitutional Step Taken
The Rivers State House of Assembly confirmed on Friday, January 16, 2026, that the Chief Judge of the state has formally received and acknowledged correspondence containing allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu. This confirmation came directly from the Assembly's spokesperson, Hon. Dr. Enemi Alabo George, who also chairs the House Committee on Information, Petents and Complaints.
The announcement followed a plenary session marking the 60th legislative day of the Third Session of the Tenth Rivers State House of Assembly. Lawmakers deliberated on the need to proceed under Section 188(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which provides the legal framework for investigating a sitting governor and deputy governor.
Court Order and Assembly's Response
This development occurred mere hours after a Rivers State High Court sitting in Oyigbo reportedly issued an order to halt further steps in the impeachment process. Despite this judicial intervention, the Assembly has moved forward with its constitutional duties.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to investigate the allegations and mandated the Speaker to forward the necessary letters to the Chief Judge. This action is pursuant to Section 188(5) of the Constitution, which requires the Chief Judge to constitute an investigative panel.
Dr. George's statement clarified that the Speaker had already complied, and the letters were not only delivered but also received and duly acknowledged by the Chief Judge's office. All relevant documents detailing the allegations were attached to the correspondence.
A Call for Calm and Commitment to Due Process
The Assembly acknowledged the heightened public interest surrounding the case, particularly in light of the Oyigbo High Court's order. In response, it issued a direct appeal to the people of Rivers State.
The lawmakers urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, cautioning against the spread of misinformation and any actions that could undermine the state's democratic institutions. They also warned against what they described as attempts by certain groups to truncate democracy through the misrepresentation of constitutional processes.
Emphasizing its guiding principles, the Assembly stressed that every action taken so far has been strictly in accordance with the Constitution. It noted that Section 188 clearly outlines each subsequent step in the proceedings, defining what may or may not occur at each stage.
Concluding its communication, the Tenth Assembly commended the people of Rivers State for their support and prayers, while firmly reaffirming its commitment to due process, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.
