Rivers State is experiencing heightened political tension following the state House of Assembly’s move to initiate impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu.
The Assembly, loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike, served the governor and his deputy with a notice of alleged gross misconduct, escalating the already fraught political climate.
The impeachment notice, signed by 26 Assembly members, outlines 19 constitutional breaches and infractions allegedly committed by Governor Fubara. These include reckless expenditure of public funds, hindering the Assembly’s constitutional duties, and making appointments without proper screening. A similar notice was served on the deputy governor, accusing her of complicity in the alleged misconduct.
This development has ignited strong reactions from Ijaw groups, who have threatened unrest if Governor Fubara, an Ijaw, is impeached. They argue that such action could destabilize the region and disrupt oil production. President Bola Tinubu, recognizing the potential for crisis, had previously intervened, urging PANDEF leaders to mediate and counsel Governor Fubara to pursue peace.
Despite President Tinubu’s efforts and PANDEF’s attempts at reconciliation, the political impasse persists. Governor Fubara’s efforts to present the budget, as mandated by a Supreme Court ruling, were rebuffed by the Assembly. Wike, in a recent media appearance, dismissed threats against oil installations and encouraged the lawmakers to proceed with impeachment if necessary.
The impeachment move has further divided political factions in the state. The Tony Okocha-led faction of the APC emphasized adherence to the rule of law, while the Emeka Beke-led faction criticized the Assembly’s actions. The state Commissioner for Information and Communications warned of potential economic hardships if the political crisis continues, stating that the lawmakers’ actions are frustrating the governor’s efforts to comply with the Supreme Court ruling.
Meanwhile, a Federal High Court adjourned ruling on a suit challenging the alleged defection of the Assembly members, adding another layer of legal complexity to the situation. The Rivers State Police Command dismissed reports of riots and an attack on Wike’s residence as false, urging the public to disregard such misinformation.
Amid the political turmoil, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has pledged to continue its surveillance and security of oil pipelines in the Niger Delta. The company emphasized its commitment to protecting oil and gas facilities, assuring that any attempts to disrupt their operations would be treated as criminal acts.
