Fubara
By Olamilekan Abayomi
The Rivers State House of Assembly has begun impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, citing gross misconduct and constitutional breaches. The notice, signed by 26 lawmakers, alleges Fubara failed to present the 2026 budget, engaged in extra-budgetary spending, and disobeyed a Supreme Court ruling on financial autonomy. The Assembly’s Majority Leader, Major Jack, stated the process follows constitutional procedures, emphasizing that the allegations are serious and warrant scrutiny.
The move has sparked controversy, with the Rivers APC rejecting the impeachment, calling it “destabilising and unnecessary”. Party leaders argue the process is politically motivated and could disrupt the state’s governance. The PDP is split, with a Wike-backed faction supporting the impeachment, while the National Working Committee (NWC) adopts a cautious stance, seeking to resolve internal conflicts.
Ijaw groups, including the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), have urged the Assembly to drop the impeachment, citing concerns over peace and stability in the state. They emphasize the need for dialogue and reconciliation among stakeholders to prevent further escalation. The groups’ leaders have expressed disappointment over the impeachment move, stressing its potential impact on the state’s development.
The allegations against Governor Fubara include failure to present the 2026 budget, which the Assembly sees as a serious breach of constitutional duty. The lawmakers also accuse him of engaging in extra-budgetary spending, undermining financial oversight. The Supreme Court ruling on financial autonomy adds weight to the Assembly’s case, with the lawmakers arguing Fubara’s actions disregard judicial authority.
The political landscape in Rivers State is increasingly tense, with rival factions mobilizing supporters. The outcome of the impeachment process remains uncertain, as stakeholders await the next steps. The Assembly has served Fubara with a 14-day notice to respond to the allegations, after which the process will unfold .
The situation highlights the complex interplay of politics and governance in Rivers State, with implications for stability and development.
