The Rivers State House of Assembly has officially begun impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, intensifying the ongoing political crisis in the oil-rich state. During a plenary session on Thursday, January 8, lawmakers, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, served a formal notice of impeachment to the governor, citing allegations of gross misconduct.
The notice, read on the House floor, accuses Fubara of multiple constitutional breaches, including failing to present the 2026 appropriation bill and the alleged mismanagement of public funds. Sources within the Assembly claim the governor has been operating the state without an approved budget for several months, defying legislative oversight.
The move comes amid persistent tensions between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The pro-Wike faction, which holds a majority in the Assembly after court rulings validated their seats, has repeatedly clashed with the governor over the control of the state’s political machinery.
This marks the second major impeachment attempt against Fubara in under three years. A previous effort in October 2023 was halted following presidential intervention and court orders, resulting in a fragile peace brokered by President Bola Tinubu.
Sources close to the governor have described the latest impeachment move as “politically motivated” and indicated plans to challenge it in court. Supporters of Fubara have begun mobilizing, raising concerns over potential unrest in Port Harcourt.
Political analysts warn that the renewed impeachment bid could deepen instability in Rivers State, potentially disrupting oil production and impacting national revenue. In line with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution, the notice must be backed by at least one-third of Assembly members and followed by an investigative panel if the governor fails to respond within the stipulated timeframe.
Security agencies are reportedly on high alert across the state capital as both sides prepare for what could become a protracted legal and political confrontation.