The political turmoil in Rivers State has intensified with the State House of Assembly filing a notice of impeachment against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Ordu.
The notice, signed by 26 lawmakers, was addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule on Friday, 14 March 2025, but was made public on Monday, 17 March 2025.
Titled “Notice of Allegations of Gross Misconduct Brought Pursuant to Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) 1999,” the letter accuses the governor of gross misconduct and mismanagement of public funds, allegedly violating Sections 120, 121, and 122 of the Constitution.
The lawmakers argue that Fubara has failed to govern in accordance with the law and his oath of office.
Citing a Supreme Court ruling (Suit No.: SC/CV/1174/2024), the letter condemns his actions, stating that fear of impeachment does not justify undermining the legislature, the constitution, or the rule of law.
This development follows an ongoing dispute over the 2025 budget presentation. Fubara had previously written to the Speaker on 13 March 2025, notifying the Assembly of his intention to present the appropriation bill on 19 March or any other suitable date. He recalled that on 12 March, when he first attempted to present the budget in compliance with a Supreme Court order, he was denied entry into the Assembly complex.
The governor maintained that, despite providing a soft copy of the budget notice due to the Clerk’s refusal to accept a hard copy, the legislators ignored his submission and locked him out.
Governor Fubara insisted that political conflicts should not overshadow the interests of the state and its people.
However, lawmakers led by Speaker Amaewhule accused him of deliberately frustrating the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment, particularly the directive to re-present the budget.
Over the weekend, Assembly spokesperson, Dr Enemi George challenged the governor to produce evidence of the letter he claimed to have sent to the House, accusing him of avoiding due process.
The Assembly also urged the public to demand that Fubara comply with established legislative procedures instead of engaging in political theatrics.
Amid the deepening rift between the executive and legislative arms, it remains uncertain whether the impeachment notice has been formally served to the governor and his deputy. With communication between both arms effectively broken down, the political landscape remains volatile.
If the impeachment process is successful, Speaker Amaewhule would be sworn in as acting governor, aligning with the earlier vow by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike to remove Fubara from office.
Recall that immediately after the Supreme Court judgement, Governor Fubara openly acknowledged the possibility of his removal, but remained resolute, declaring that no amount of pressure will force him to abandon his principles or commitment to governance.
Speaking during the inauguration of the newly reconstructed Government House Staff Quarters in Port Harcourt, Fubara told supporters that while his adversaries may push for his exit, it will not define his legacy or stop him from fighting for the people of Rivers State.
According to him, “The worst that will happen is for me to leave the office. Am I leaving the earth? Is it going to stop me from existing?” while reflecting on the mounting opposition against him.
His comments come in the wake of a Supreme Court judgment that reportedly dampened the morale of many Rivers residents, reinforcing speculation that the governor’s tenure is under serious threat.
However, Fubara urged his supporters to remain steadfast, stressing that the battle ahead is even more critical than what has already transpired.
“No matter how we’ve been fooled in this state, it has gotten to a point where the people must take their destinies into their own hands,” he declared, hinting at an imminent political showdown.
Despite his defiance, Fubara maintained that he does not support violence, but warned that his administration will not remain passive while forces work to destabilize the state.
“In as much as I don’t subscribe to violence, when the time comes for us to take a decision, I will lead that course,” he stated.
The governor emphasized that his faith lies in God and the people who believe in the state’s progress. Quoting Philippians 3:18-19, he criticized those who prioritize personal gain over the welfare of the people, stating, “We are not after our stomachs; we are after the joy of our people.”
Fubara also reassured Rivers residents of his commitment to good governance.
“I will lead you with honour, respect, and integrity, knowing that when I leave here, I will have questions to answer. I want to be proud to defend my position,” he affirmed
