Adekoya Samson, Abuja, Nigeria — January 8, 2026
The Rivers State House of Assembly has formally commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Odu, escalating a simmering political crisis in the oil-rich southern state.
At a plenary session on Thursday presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the Majority Leader, Major Jack, read a notice outlining multiple allegations of “gross misconduct” against Governor Fubara, invoking Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The notice — signed by 26 members of the Assembly — accuses the governor of actions allegedly in breach of the Constitution and state governance norms.
Among the key allegations are the demolition of the Assembly complex, unauthorised extra-budgetary spending, withholding of funds due to the Assembly Service Commission, and failure to comply with a Supreme Court ruling on legislative financial autonomy.
In the same session, the Deputy Majority Leader, read out a separate notice of alleged gross misconduct against Deputy Governor Odu, citing reckless and unconstitutional spending, obstruction of legislative functions, and improper budgetary dealings outside the legitimate Assembly process.
Speaker Amaewhule announced that the impeachment notices will be formally served on both the governor and his deputy within the next seven days, as required by law.
The commencement of the impeachment process comes amid prolonged political tensions in Rivers State, marked by disputes between the executive and legislative branches and internal party fractures. Observers say the development signals a significant escalation that could have major implications for governance and political stability in the state.
About Author
