The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, has formally commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. The move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political crisis within the state.
During a plenary session on Thursday, Majority Leader Major Jack presented a notice containing seven allegations of gross misconduct against the governor. Signed by 26 lawmakers, the charges include the previous demolition of the Assembly complex, unauthorized extra-budgetary spending, and the withholding of funds allocated to the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission.
Governor Fubara is further accused of disregarding Supreme Court judgments regarding the legislature’s financial autonomy and violating other constitutional provisions. Simultaneously, Deputy Majority Leader Linda Stewart presented a separate notice against Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, accusing her of obstructing legislative duties and improper budgetary approvals.
Speaker Amaewhule confirmed that the impeachment notices would be served on both officials within seven days, in line with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. The Assembly also passed a resolution barring the governor from presenting the Mid-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) or the 2026 state budget pending the outcome of the investigation.
Security has been tightened around government facilities in Port Harcourt following the announcement, with residents expressing concern over potential unrest.
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