A prominent group of elders in Rivers State has issued a strong condemnation of the impeachment proceedings initiated against the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu.
Elders Decry Politically Motivated Move
The Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum, in a statement released on 10 January 2026, expressed deep concern over the action taken by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The forum's Acting Chairman, Gabriel Toby, a former deputy governor of the state, signed the document.
The group described impeachment as a serious constitutional tool that must not be weaponized for political vendetta or factional fights. They argued that the reasons presented so far to justify removing the governor are alarmingly insufficient.
Lack of Substance and Public Interest
According to the elders, the grounds for the impeachment notice lack substance, do not serve public interest, and fail to meet constitutional standards. They believe the move is propelled by narrow personal interests rather than a genuine desire for good governance.
The forum reminded the Assembly that Governor Fubara's mandate was given freely by the people of Rivers State. They stressed that any challenge to this mandate must follow strict constitutional procedure and be based on clear, compelling, and verifiable evidence.
Risk of Deepening Division and Instability
The elders warned that the current impeachment notice threatens to worsen political divisions, undermine public trust in democratic institutions, and further destabilize the state. They pointed out that Rivers State is still recovering from the political, social, and institutional disruptions of a recent period of emergency rule.
"This development, coming so early in the year, risks reopening old wounds and heightening tensions at a time when stability and focused governance are urgently needed," the statement read.
The forum, therefore, called on the State House of Assembly to immediately retract its steps and prioritize the collective interest, peace, and progress of Rivers State above any partisan or personal agenda.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace, unity, and constitutional democracy, the Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum vowed not to stay silent in the face of any action that endangers the stability, dignity, and future of the state.
