As political tensions rise in Rivers State, a group of lawmakers has appealed for restraint following the impeachment notice issued against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Nma Odu, warning that the move could further destabilise the state.
Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday, the House Minority Leader, Sylvanus Nwankwo, alongside the lawmaker representing Degema, Peter Abbey, urged their colleagues in the State House of Assembly to suspend the impeachment process and embrace dialogue, mediation and reconciliation.
The lawmakers said their appeal was driven by growing pressure from traditional rulers, community leaders and constituents who are weary of prolonged political instability and its impact on governance and development.
“While impeachment notices have been issued against the governor and his deputy, we are appealing to our colleagues to temper justice with mercy and explore peaceful alternatives,” Nwankwo said. “The people of Rivers State are exhausted by recurring political crises. We must put the welfare of the state above partisan interests.”
The impeachment notice, endorsed by 26 lawmakers and formally presented by the Majority Leader, Major Jack, accuses Governor Fubara of gross misconduct. The allegations include approving over ₦800 billion in extra-budgetary expenditure without legislative consent, withholding funds due to the Assembly Service Commission, demolishing the Assembly complex, and allegedly disregarding Supreme Court judgments on legislative autonomy. The deputy governor is also accused of aiding and abetting these actions.
Assembly Speaker Amaewhule confirmed that the notices would be formally served on the governor and his deputy within seven days, in line with constitutional requirements. However, Governor Fubara has insisted that he has not yet been officially served with any impeachment notice.
The renewed impeachment move underscores the enduring power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Similar attempts to remove Fubara in 2023 and 2025 were thwarted by presidential intervention, culminating in the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu in March last year.
Observers warn that unless political actors de-escalate tensions, the impeachment process could reignite instability in one of Nigeria’s most politically sensitive states.