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  • APC South-south slams Rivers lawmakers over plot to impeach Fubara

    APC South-south slams Rivers lawmakers over plot to impeach Fubara

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Group and lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly have expressed contrasting positions on recent developments involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the implementation of the 2026 budget process.

    The APC South-South Group, speaking on Friday in Port Harcourt, reacted to comments by some lawmakers who claimed that the governor had not fully adhered to the peace agreement brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resolve ongoing political tensions in the state.

    Addressing journalists, the group’s coordinator, Comrade Freedom Amadi, said the issues currently generating concern were linked to disagreements over the budget and governance priorities. 

    He maintained that the governor’s decisions were within his administrative authority and called for continued dialogue to preserve stability.

    According to him, the presidential peace accord was designed to restore calm and ensure that all institutions in the state functioned without friction. 

    He added that mutual respect for constitutional roles remained essential for sustaining the progress achieved since the agreement was reached.

    Lawmakers, however, have insisted that certain actions recently taken by the governor were inconsistent with the terms of the agreement and argued that the House of Assembly would continue to exercise its constitutional responsibilities.

    The APC South-South urged all parties to avoid actions or statements that could escalate tensions, stressing that collaborative engagement was necessary to uphold democratic order.

    The group also called on both the Rivers State House of Assembly and relevant federal institutions to maintain restraint and prioritise measures that reinforce peace, institutional harmony, and public confidence in the governance process.

  • Rivers lawmakers adamant as stakeholders move to stop Fubara’s impeachment

    Rivers lawmakers adamant as stakeholders move to stop Fubara’s impeachment

    The 26 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly seeking the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara declared yesterday that they were pressing ahead with their plan just as the  apex socio-political organization in the  South-South , Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) activated a high-powered machinery to stop the plot.

    The lawmakers,in an update,said the impeachment process  “ is fully on course in line with relevant provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”

    “The two notices of allegations of gross misconduct brought pursuant to Section 188 of the Constitution against the Governor and Deputy have been forwarded to them by the Speaker of the House while we await their responses,” Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Enemi Alabo George said.

    He was reacting to speculations on social media that the process  had been halted or discontinued.

    He said the false narratives were designed to  “cause disaffection between the House and well-meaning Nigerians.”

    “We remain committed to our constitutional duties and would not be dissuaded by cheap blackmail or threats from those who do not mean well for our country’s nascent democracy,” he said and thanked the people of Rivers State for  “their prayers and encouragement and express our gratitude to all stakeholders and leaders at all levels and use this medium to extend our warm regards to all democrats who believe in the Nigerian project.”

    PANDEF  leaders -King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass and first military governor of the old Rivers State ; Obong Victor Attah, former Governor, Akwa Ibom State and Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali- set up  a seven member reconciliation committee to resolve the crisis between the Governor and the assembly members.

    The committee is chaired by a former Attorney-General of the Federation ,Chief Kanu Agabi, (SAN).

    Other members of the committee are  Senator Obende Domingo (former Senator, Edo North) – Vice Chairman; Chief Essien Nduese, a former Minister of Housing; Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari.a retired Federal Permanent Secretaryy; Chief Mike Ejiofor, a retired director of the  Department of State Service);Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem (SAN), a former Attorney-General of  Cross River State; and Prince Godwin Okotie, Secretary.

    Read Also: Fubara lacks capacity to win Rivers for Tinubu in 2027 – Rivers Deputy Chief Whip

    PANDEF expressed concern over the Thursday announcement by Rivers State Assembly Speaker Martin Amaewhule of moves to impeach the governor and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu for alleged gross misconduct..

    The group said theit was imperative   to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order in the state.

    It said its concern stemmed from “the critical importance and strategic centrality of Rivers State to the Niger Delta region and to the broader socio-political stability and economic wellbeing of Nigeria as a whole.”

    It added: “In keeping with its non-partisan posture and its overarching role as a unifying and motherly platform for the region, PANDEF calls on all parties involved in the resurgent political imbroglio to sheathe the sword and embrace peace, guided by the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity. All stakeholders must place paramount importance on peace, development, and the welfare of the people of Rivers State, as well as the interests of other citizens of the South-South, Nigerians at large, and the sizeable expatriate community resident in the State. We must now focus squarely on good governance and development of the state.”

    PANDEF commended President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their previous and ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the State.

    It asked  all parties to fully cooperate with “this distinguished and highly respected team of senior Nigerians and sons and daughters of the South-South zone, as they selflessly commit their time and experience to this arduous assignment, with the objective of achieving a peaceful, fair, and sustainable resolution through a dispassionate and inclusive process.”

    The Nation gathered yesterday that some other eminent Nigerians from Rivers State  and groups had either stepped in or were in the process of brokering peace between Gov.Fubara,the assemblymen and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike,the estranged godfather of the governor.

    The governor himself is said to be out of the country.

    There has been no official response from him to the impeachment notice or the allegations leveled at him by the assemblymen.

    INC, Fubara’s political family reject impeachment

    The Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the political family of governor yesterday kicked against the impeachment threat.

    The INC in a statement signed by its President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, condemned the impeachment move, describing it as a grave threat to democracy, peace, and stability in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region.

    “This is the third of such attempt since 2023, revealing a relentless cycle of political vendetta that must be broken.

    We stand firmly with the people of Rivers State and all defenders of constitutional order in rejecting this dangerous gambit”, Okaba said.

    He said the INC framed the crisis not merely as an Ijaw issue, but as a fundamental test for and threat to the country’s democracy, insisting that  “is not a matter of the Ijaw nation but of democracy”.

    Okaba said: “The allegations presented by the Assembly, including matters of budgetary spending and gubernatorial appointments, are governance issues that can and must be resolved within the framework of law and due process, not through the weaponization of impeachment.

    “This impeachment threat, no doubt, follows the collapse of a peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu in June 2025, aimed at resolving the feud between Governor Fubara and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

    “The Assembly’s notice cites Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. However, the speed and context of this process raise questions about its adherence to the spirit of fairness and its use as a political tool rather than a genuine check on executive power.

    “The INC’s stance is also echoed by persons across the political spectrum, including within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, who have also called for the impeachment to be dropped”.

    Okaba asked President Tinubu to act decisively as the father of the nation, appealing to the President to uphold constitutional democracy by using his authority and office to defend the constitutional order in Rivers.

    He urged the President to ensure absolute neutrality and fairness, adding that the peace and economic stability of the Niger Delta, hinged on the federal government being perceived as an honest broker.

    Okaba said the President should curb all agents of instability and safeguard federal allocations to Rivers.

    He said: “In this tense period, the INC urges and strongly advises all Ijaw people and residents of Rivers State to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and resolute. Do not be provoked into any action that could lead to violence or the destruction of property.

    Okaba urged the stakeholders to stand for democratic principles by channeling their energies into peaceful civic engagement, support lawful advocacy and defend democratic institutions.

    He said: “The legitimate development projects initiated by the state government must not be sacrificed on the altar of politics. We encourage all stakeholders to return to the path of genuine dialogue. The previous suspensions and state of emergency have not yielded lasting peace. Only an inclusive, good-faith dialogue can secure a sustainable future for the state.

    Okaba rallied Ijaw people across the world to defend what he described as brotherhood in Rivers State and elsewhere in similar circumstances.

    He said: “Ijaws and other ethnic nationalities and lovers of democracy globally must rise to the occasion now in defence of the Right of the PEOPLE, to good governance, orderliness and peaceful coexistence.

    “The INC does passionately appeal and advise both the executive and the legistative arms of government in Rivers State to work together amicably and peacefully in the overall interest of the Masses in the State, who are, indeed entitled to peace and development, and not self-destruction or anarchy

    “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take all legitimate and constitutional steps necessary to ensure that the rights of the Ijaw people and all citizens of Rivers State are protected, and that democracy prevails over impunity”.

    On its part,Fubara’s political family known as  the Supreme Council for Sim (SCS) called the  impeachment move illegal.

    Speaking after an emergency meeting in Port Harcourt, the leader of the group, Amb. Oji Ngofa said the reasons given  for the impeachment has no legal basis.

    “We all know that the governor transited the budget to the National Assembly which the fiscal life is still on. The Constitution allows for six months of grace into the new year. We don’t understand why impeachment was raised against the governor on the basis of the budget. It amounts to playing dangerous politics with the destiny of Rivers people.

    “This state belongs to everyone and as a group we have resolved today to resist any attempt to continue to take Rivers for a ride. The state belongs to everyone. We have the right to our collective patrimony as Rivers people.

    “We feel that what is going on has continued long enough and continue to insult the sensibilities of the people. We are not seeing any expression of the interest of Rivers man in what they are doing. What we are seeing is the attempt to appropriate our collective resources for self aggrandizement.

    “The state wants to live in peace. We have analysed all the issues and we believe the impeachment move is illegal. Members of the APC in the assembly have no right to endorse the move when they have not consulted internally to solve the problem.

    The Eastern Zone of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) in separate statements blamed Wike for the escalation of tension in the state.

    They said while the June 2025 peace brokered by Presient Tinubu was widely welcomed as a necessary step towards reconciling warring factions and restoring harmony in the state “subsequent statements and activities attributed to Minister Wike have had the opposite effect, undermining the spirit and objectives of that agreement and reintroducing uncertainty into the political environment.”

    They said  Fubara as an  indigene of the State and citizen of Nigeria reserves the right to seek a rerun in 2027 to complete his eight years constitutional right to Governor the State.

    They vowed that nothing would stop him from contesting for governorship next year.

    They said: “The Ijaw National Congress and the Ijaw Youth Council hereby affirm that Governor Siminialayi Fubara, as a bona fide Rivers citizen, retains the unrestricted right to contest any future election, including the 2027 governorship race, without coercion, intimidation, or political preconditions.

    “No individual may arrogate to himself the power to determine the political destiny of Rivers State.

    “We therefore call on Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike to immediately de-escalate hostilities, cease all acts and statements capable of destabilizing Rivers State, and allow the peace accord facilitated by President Tinubu to take root in the interest of governance, democracy, and public order.”

    Only fasting, prayers can save Fubara,says  Fayose

    Reviewing the situation in Rivers State yesterday,former Ekiti State Governor  Ayodele Fayose said only fasting and prayers could  save Governor Fubara.

    Fayose, a close  ally of Wike  advised Fubara to reconcile with Wike.

    “Many prayers would be said to save Fubara. So many fasts and prayers would be the only thing that would save Fubara in this one,” Fayose said on Channels Television.

    He accused Fubara  of not keeping to the agreements he reached with Wike  in Abuja.

    The ex-Ekiti governor said  Wike never envisaged that Fubara would betray him.

    “I never knew this incident would happen between Governor Fubara and Governor Wike now. I was seated on the high table the day Fubara was sworn in. I told Wike I want to say one or two things to tell Governor Fubara not to betray you.

    “He said, ‘I should not say it, he cannot do it.’ In my own usual way of telling people the truth, I came out and said ‘My brother, lock all the windows, don’t listen to people. This Wike are people that brought you, remain with them, don’t look for Wike’s trouble.’”

    Wike seeks support for Tinubu, urges unity in Rivers

    However, Wike in continuation of his ‘thank you tour of the state yesterday called for greater unity and collaboration among political leaders in Rivers State to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

    Wike,speaking in  Andoni Local Government Area said the visit was to show appreciation to the people for their support for  President Tinubu in the 2023 polls and to seek their  backing for him in next year’s  elections.

    The former governor of Rivers State noted that major political parties in the state had united under what he described as a “Rainbow Coalition”.

    He encouraged community leaders to continue working together in unity, urging them to present a united front to return Tinubu in 2027.

    He said: “See what unity has done. It is no longer a time when one man will be the Iroko, where one man will decide what good will come to Andoni. By the special grace of God, by the unity of the leaders, more will come to Andoni.

    “We don’t have a party in Rivers State. What we have is the Rainbow Coalition under the Renewed Hope Family.

    “And so I want all of you to continue to play that role you played in 2023 by making sure we continue to support Ahmed Bola Tinubu. There’s no negotiation about that.”

    Wike further stated that the local politics of the state would be discussed at a later time, noting, however, that the mistake made in 2023 would be corrected.

    Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the council, Lucky Otuo, said the people were grateful for the minister’s visit to the community.

    Otuo said: “Andoni people are grateful people. We are grateful to you. Your Excellency, come 2027, Andoni people will vote for Mr President.”

    Fubara lacks capacity to win Rivers for Tinubu in 2027 – Rivers Deputy Chief Whip

    Also speaking during the visit,the Deputy Chief Whip of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Ofiks Kagbang said  Governor Fubara lacks what it takes to win Rivers State for President Tinubu in 2027.

    Kagbang said Wike saved the state from descending into crisis, adding that the state should not be allowed to return to what he described as “dark days.”

    Kagbang pledged that the state,through the instrumentality  of Wike, would vote for  Tinubu .

    He said:”the people that will deliver Tinubu are with Wike not with Fubara. Not those people at Government house. Andoni poeple are grateful people.

    “Those that will deliver President Bola Tinubu in 2027 are with Wike.”

    The Rivers State Assemblymen in their impeachment notice to the Governor claimed that he authorized, and approved withdrawal and expenditure of funds from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund without legislative appropriation.

    “No appropriation bill of Rivers State has been presented nor has any such law been duly passed into law, as the purported presentation and passage of the 2024 Appropriation Bill is void ab initio,” they alleged.

    Fubara was accused of authorising and approving withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Account in 2024 without a duly passed appropriation law by the Assembly, contrary to Section 120 of the 1999 Constitution.

    He was also said to have awarded contracts, including the construction of a new Rivers State House of Assembly complex, without legislative approval.

    The lawmakers further alleged that the governor authorised withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Fund in 2025, particularly between January and March, without a duly passed appropriation law by the Assembly.

    They accused Fubara of violating Section 122 of the Constitution by authorising expenditure from the Consolidated Revenue Fund even after the Assembly declared a shutdown of state expenditure through a House resolution.

    The lawmakers said that on February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court restored a judgment of the Federal High Court, which confirmed that Fubara never presented any appropriation bill for 2024, did not have one for 2025, and ordered a shutdown of the state’s expenditures.

    The governor was also accused of approving, sometime in September 2023, extra-budgetary expenditure of N5 billion for the Ogoni-Andoni Unity Road without appropriation.

    The document further alleged that Fubara “approved and expended from the Consolidated Account an extra-budgetary fund of N4 billion and purported to have expended same on the Woji Refinery Road without appropriation,” among other claims.

    In the case of the deputy governor,she was accused of reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds, obstruction of the House from performing its constitutional duties, and colluding to allow unauthorised individuals to occupy public offices without proper screening by the legislature.

    She was also accused of seeking budgetary approval from an alternative group rather than the constitutionally recognised Rivers State House of Assembly, as well as withholding salaries and allowances due to lawmakers and the Assembly Service Commission.

    Both the governor and the deputy governor were given seven days to file their responses.

  • INC, Fubara’s political family, rejects impeachment

    INC, Fubara’s political family, rejects impeachment

    The Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the political family of the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, have risen against the move by the state House of Assembly to remove the governor.

    Also, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) expressed dissatisfaction over the lingering disagreements between Fubara and the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nyesom Wike.

    The Assembly on Thursday issued notice of allegations and gross misconduct to the governor and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and gave them seven days to file their responses.

    The impeachment rekindled the political crisis in the oil-rich state, which many people thought had ended after the state of emergency that lasted for six months.

     The INC, in a statement signed by its President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, condemned the impeachment move, describing it as a grave threat to democracy, peace, and stability in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region.

    “This is the third of such attempts since 2023, revealing a relentless cycle of political vendetta that must be broken.

    We stand firmly with the people of Rivers State and all defenders of constitutional order in rejecting this dangerous gambit,” Okaba said.

    He said the INC framed the crisis not merely as an Ijaw issue, but as a fundamental test for and threat to the country’s democracy, insisting that “it is not a matter of the Ijaw nation but of democracy”.

    Okaba said, “The allegations presented by the Assembly, including matters of budgetary spending and gubernatorial appointments, are governance issues that can and must be resolved within the framework of law and due process, not through the weaponization of impeachment.

    “This impeachment threat, no doubt, follows the collapse of a peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu in June 2025, aimed at resolving the feud between Governor Fubara and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

    “The Assembly’s notice cites Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. However, the speed and context of this process raise questions about its adherence to the spirit of fairness and its use as a political tool rather than a genuine check on executive power.

    “The INC’s stance is also echoed by persons across the political spectrum, including within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, who have also called for the impeachment to be dropped.”

    Okaba called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act decisively as the father of the nation, appealing to the President to uphold constitutional democracy by using his authority and office to defend the constitutional order in Rivers.

    He urged the President to ensure absolute neutrality and fairness, adding that the peace and economic stability of the Niger Delta hinged on the federal government being perceived as an honest broker.

    Okaba called on the President to curb all agents of instability and safeguard federal allocations to Rivers.

    He said, “In this tense period, the INC urges and strongly advises all Ijaw people and residents of Rivers State to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and resolute. Do not be provoked into any action that could lead to violence or the destruction of property.

    Okaba urged the stakeholders to stand for democratic principles by channeling their energies into peaceful civic engagement, support lawful advocacy and defend democratic institutions.

    He said, “The legitimate development projects initiated by the state government must not be sacrificed on the altar of politics. We encourage all stakeholders to return to the path of genuine dialogue. The previous suspensions and state of emergency have not yielded lasting peace. Only an inclusive, good-faith dialogue can secure a sustainable future for the state.

    Okaba rallied Ijaw people across the world to defend what he described as brotherhood in Rivers State and elsewhere in similar circumstances.

    He said, “Ijaws and other ethnic nationalities and lovers of democracy globally must rise to the occasion now in defence of the Right of the PEOPLE, to good governance, orderliness and peaceful coexistence.

    “The INC does passionately appeal and advise both the executive and the legistative arms of government in Rivers State to work together amicably and peacefully in the overall interest of the Masses in the State, who are, indeed, entitled to peace and development, and not self-destruction or anarchy

    “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take all legitimate and constitutional steps necessary to ensure that the rights of the Ijaw people and all citizens of Rivers State are protected, and that democracy prevails over impunity.”

    On Friday, Fubara’s political family under the auspices of the Supreme Council for Sim (SCS) condemned the impeachment move, saying it was illegal.

    Speaking after an emergency meeting in Port Harcourt, the leader of the group, Amb. Oji Ngofa, insisted that the move was unconstitutional and that the reasons adduced for it lacked a constitutional basis.

    Ngofa said, “Supreme Council for Sim outrightly rejects and condemns the purported impeachment move against the governor of Rivers State. We think that the move is unconstitutional and the reasons they have adduced for the impeachment have no legal basis.

    “We all know that the governor transmitted the budget to the National Assembly which the fiscal life is still on. The Constitution allows for six months of grace into the New Year. We don’t understand why impeachment was raised against the governor on the basis of the budget. It amounts to playing dangerous politics with the destiny of the Rivers people.

    “This state belongs to everyone, and as a group we have resolved today to resist any attempt to continue to take Rivers for a ride. The state belongs to everyone. We have the right to our collective patrimony as Rivers people.

    “We feel that what is going on has continued long enough and continues to insult the sensibilities of the people. We are not seeing any expression of the interest of Rivers men in what they are doing. What we are seeing is the attempt to appropriate our collective resources for self-aggrandizement.

    “The state wants to live in peace. We have analysed all the issues, and we believe the impeachment move is illegal. Members of the APC in the assembly have no right to endorse the move when they have not consulted internally to solve the problem.

    “I am calling on our party to begin to take punitive measures against those APC lawmakers who endorsed the move. We will stand by the governor because we believe that the direction of Wike’s politics is not in the interest of Rivers people. They have not added any legislative value to the Rivers people.”

  • Fubara lacks capacity to win Rivers for Tinubu in 2027 – Rivers Deputy Chief Whip

    Fubara lacks capacity to win Rivers for Tinubu in 2027 – Rivers Deputy Chief Whip

    • …We need development – Wike

    Deputy Chief Whip of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Ofiks Kagbang, has said Governor Siminalayi Fubara lacks the political strength to secure Rivers State for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

    Kagbang made the remark during the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike’s ongoing “thank you” tour of Andoni Local Government Area. He credited Wike with preventing the state from sliding into crisis and cautioned against a return to what he described as its “dark days.”

    He expressed confidence that Rivers State would deliver for President Tinubu in 2027 through Wike’s leadership.

    While acknowledging the gratitude of the Ijaw people, Kagbang added that certain political missteps by the governor must be addressed.

    His words, “We have saved Rivers State from crisis. Rivers State cannot go back to its ‘dark days’.

    “People who will deliver Tinubu are with Wike, not with Fubara. Not those people at Government house. Andoni people are grateful people.

    “Those who will deliver President Bola Tinubu in 2027 are with Wike.

    “The one in the government house is a mistake, and we will correct that mistake when the time comes.”

    While addressing the gathering, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, called for unity of purpose for the growth and progress of Rivers State.

    Wike made the call during his ongoing “thank you” visit to Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers.

    He said unity had brought progress and development for the Andoni people, stressing the need for leaders at the local and state levels to remain united for the good of all.

    Wike advised the people to continue to work together, assuring that more development would come to Andoni if the leaders remained united.

    Read Also: Employment for Rivers people key to development – Wike

    The minister said politicians in the state were united under one umbrella, the “Renewed Hope Family” tagged Rainbow Coalition, to ensure the re-election of President Bola Tinubu for a second term.

    Wike said, “We don’t have party allegiance in Rivers. What we have is a Rainbow Coalition under the Renewed Hope Family in pursuit of a common course and interest.

    “You supported Tinubu in 2023, and today we are seeing the results. Do the same in 2027.

    “For our local politics, at the appropriate time we will take a decision to correct the mistake we made in 2023.”

    Chairman of the Council, Prince Otuo, told Wike that he had united the leaders of the party in the area to mobilise support for Tinubu’s re-election for a second term in 2027.

    Otuo thanked Wike for all the support and employment opportunities he had provided for his people, including projects executed in the area during his tenure as governor of the state.

  • Group urges Tinubu to intervene over impeachment move against Fubara

    Group urges Tinubu to intervene over impeachment move against Fubara

    The Rivers Peace Agenda Forum (RPAF) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing political tension in Rivers State, expressing concerns over recent developments surrounding impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

    In a statement, the group described the impeachment notice initiated by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly as troubling and potentially destabilising for democratic governance in the state.

    “We, the concerned citizens, elders, and stakeholders united under the Rivers Peace Agenda Forum, are raising this SOS to Mr. President and Commander-in-Chief because our dear state is being held hostage by undemocratic forces,” the statement declared.

    “The impeachment move initiated today against Governor Siminalayi Fubara is a brazen affront to the institution of democracy in Rivers State. It is a calculated attempt to overthrow the people’s mandate through the backdoor and impose chaos for selfish political interests.

    “The peace agreement personally brokered by President Tinubu in 2023 was meant to restore calm and allow governance to thrive.”

    The RPAF noted that Governor Fubara’s administration has continued to focus on governance and service delivery amid the political uncertainty, but warned that persistent conflict could undermine development efforts in the state.

    Appealing directly to the President, the forum called for decisive intervention to ensure adherence to the peace accord, protect democratic processes, and prevent any actions that could further polarise the state.

    The group stressed that maintaining political stability in Rivers State is critical for governance and development, urging all parties to prioritise dialogue and the rule of law.

  • FULL LIST: Eight allegations against Fubara as Rivers Assembly begins impeachment process

    FULL LIST: Eight allegations against Fubara as Rivers Assembly begins impeachment process

    The political crisis in Rivers State escalated on Thursday, January 8 when the Assembly commenced fresh impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Ngozi Odu, issuing them a seven-day notice to respond to allegations of gross misconduct.

    This is the third time Fubara and Odu would be facing impeachment proceedings from the Assembly since coming to office in 2023. 

    Attempts to impeach them in 2023 and 2025, amid political feuds between the Governor and his predecessor and erstwhile political god-father, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, had been halted by presidential intervention.

    Read Also: Why Fubara, deputy should go, by lawmakers

    Here are the allegations below: 

    1. Reckless and unconstitutional expenditure of public funds

    2. Unconstitutional misappropriation of public funds

    3. Hindering the Rivers Assembly from performing its constitutional duties

    4.  Illegal appointments of persons without screening by the House of Assembly as provided by the Constitution 

    5.  Seizure of salaries and funds meant for Assembly members

    6. Seizure of salaries of the clerk of the Rivers House of Assembly, Emeka Amadi

     7. Refusal to implement provisions of the Constitution on financial autonomy of the legislature and the judiciary

    8. Withholding of funds meant for the running of the Rivers House of Assembly Service Commission and hindering its activities

  • Why Fubara, deputy should go, by lawmakers

    Why Fubara, deputy should go, by lawmakers

    • Speaker: Governor to get impeachment notice for misconduct within seven days

    Rivers State yesterday slipped deeper into another political turmoil as lawmakers moved to deploy the ultimate weapon against the governor and his deputy – impeachment.

    What began as a simmering struggle for control has now escalated into a high-stakes showdown that could upend the state’s leadership.

    The State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, initiated fresh impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.

    The lawmakers reconvened for a special plenary and tabled allegations of gross misconduct against Fubara in a voluminous document.

    During a sitting beamed live on national television stations, the House insisted that the governor must be investigated for offences bordering on gross misconduct and total disobedience to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as well as extant laws of the state.

    The document was read on the floor of the House by the Majority Leader, Major Jack.

    READ ALSO; Still on Nigeria’s re-designation as ‘country of particular concern’

    The impeachment notice was signed by 26 members out of the 27 that are available. Only one member abstained.

    The House has 32 statutory members, three members are on suspension, one member resigned and another one died. Both have not being replaced.

    Allegations of unauthorised spending

    Central to the allegations is Fubara’s alleged authorisation, approval, withdrawal and expenditure of funds from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund without legislative appropriation.

    The document alleged: “No appropriation bill of Rivers State has been presented nor has any such law been duly passed into law, as the purported presentation and passage of the 2024 Appropriation Bill is void ab initio.”

    Fubara was accused of authorising and approving withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Account in 2024 without a duly passed appropriation law by the Assembly, contrary to Section 120 of the 1999 Constitution.

    He was also said to have awarded contracts, including the construction of a new Rivers State House of Assembly complex, without legislative approval.

    The lawmakers further alleged that the governor authorised withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Fund in 2025, particularly between January and March, without a duly passed appropriation law by the Assembly.

    They accused Fubara of violating Section 122 of the Constitution by authorising expenditure from the Consolidated Revenue Fund even after the Assembly declared a shutdown of state expenditure through a House resolution.

    The lawmakers said that on February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court restored a judgment of the Federal High Court, which confirmed that Fubara never presented any appropriation bill for 2024, did not have one for 2025, and ordered a shutdown of the state’s expenditures.

    The governor was also accused of approving, sometime in September 2023, extra-budgetary expenditure of N5 billion for the Ogoni-Andoni Unity Road without appropriation.

    The document further alleged that Fubara “approved and expended from the Consolidated Account an extra-budgetary fund of N4 billion and purported to have expended same on the Woji Refinery Road without appropriation,” among other claims.

    On allegations of gross misconduct, the lawmakers accused the governor of misappropriation of public funds, contrary to the 1999 Constitution.

    He was also accused of obstructing the Rivers State House of Assembly from performing its constitutional duties, citing the demolition of the Assembly complex on October 13, 2023.

    Fubara was further alleged to have appointed individuals into public offices in the state without subjecting them to the constitutionally required screening and confirmation by the Assembly.

    The governor was also accused of seizing salaries, allowances and other funds belonging to the Rivers State House of Assembly, contrary to Section 121 of the Constitution.

    Lawmakers said he seized the salaries of the Clerk of the House, Emeka Amadi, and refused to implement decisions on the financial autonomy of both the Rivers State House of Assembly and the state judiciary.

    He was further accused of withholding funds meant for the operations of the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission, thereby frustrating a commission established under Part II of the 1999 Constitution.

    In their petition, the 26 lawmakers stated: “The governor has shown that he is not prepared to govern Rivers State in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and his oath of office.

    “The Supreme Court condemned the actions of the governor when the court stated that the fear of impeachment by the eight respondents is no justification for the attack on the rule of law.”

    While receiving the document, Speaker Amaewhule said it was submitted pursuant to Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution.

    “I am in receipt of the letter and, in pursuant of the 1999 Constitution, I will ensure that the letter is forwarded to the governor within seven days,” Amaewhule said.

    Fubara could not be reached for his reaction yesterday.

    It was learnt, although, not confirmed that the governor was not in the state.

    Case against deputy governor

    The Deputy Leader of the House, Linda Stewart, also presented a separate notice of alleged gross misconduct against Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu.

    Odu was accused of reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds, obstruction of the House from performing its constitutional duties, and colluding to allow unauthorised individuals to occupy public offices without proper screening by the legislature.

    She was also accused of seeking budgetary approval from an alternative group rather than the constitutionally recognised Rivers State House of Assembly, as well as withholding salaries and allowances due to lawmakers and the Assembly Service Commission.

    ‘We’ll resign if impeachment fails’

    Amaewhule and other lawmakers vowed to resign should the impeachment process fail.

    Addressing lawmakers during plenary, he insisted that neither the governor nor the deputy governor would be spared in the impeachment plan.

    “It will be better for lawmakers to step down than allow Fubara to defraud the people of Rivers State,” he said.

    The Speaker explained that the lingering political crisis in the state was not a battle between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Fubara, but a confrontation between the governor and the Constitution.

     Youths clash over Fubara’s impeachment

    Youth groups in Rivers State took opposing positions over the move to impeach Fubara.

    The Rivers State Youth Parliament (RSYP) declared its support for the lawmakers’ decision to investigate the governor over alleged gross misconduct.

    In a statement signed by its Speaker, Wisdom Bruce, the group described the impeachment process as “timely and necessary” in the interest of peace, stability and democratic governance in the state.

    RSYP said Rivers State had experienced prolonged political tension, a breakdown of trust among stakeholders and repeated breaches of peace accords brokered by the President and other national leaders.

    The group alleged that these agreements were consistently violated by the governor, thereby undermining efforts to restore political stability.

    According to RSYP, the alleged breaches amount to an affront to democratic norms and constitutional responsibility.

    It stressed that impeachment, as provided for in the Constitution, is not an act of vendetta but a legitimate democratic process to safeguard governance, uphold the rule of law and protect the public interest.

    The youth parliament also warned that continued political instability could worsen economic stagnation, erode investor confidence and shrink opportunities for young people, who it said bear the brunt of governance failures.

    But, the South South Youths Initiative (SSYI) condemned the impeachment move, describing it as ill-conceived and destabilising.

    In a statement signed by its National President, Imeabe Saviour Oscar, the group said youths across the South-South, particularly in Rivers State, were disturbed by the impeachment notice.

    SSYI argued that the action was coming at a time when Rivers people expected cooperation between the executive and the legislature to restore effective governance after what it described as a six-month near collapse during emergency rule.

    The group said it was unfortunate that while other states were focused on governance, Rivers State was still trapped in political battles.

    It appealed to lawmakers to work with the governor to deliver good governance, and urged Fubara to remain focused despite what it called political distractions.

    CLO urges dialogue

     The Rivers State chapter of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) appealed to parties to shun hostilities and embrace dialogue in resolving the ongoing political crisis.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Sunny Dada, and Secretary-General, Christian Onyegbule, the group urged lawmakers to reconsider the impeachment move reportedly linked to the governor’s alleged failure to present the 2026 appropriation bill.

    It warned that although the Constitution empowers state assemblies to initiate impeachment, such powers must be exercised with due process, fairness, and good faith to avoid being seen as instruments of political conflict.

    The CLO expressed concern that Rivers State’s tense political atmosphere could undermine the credibility of constitutional procedures.

    It insisted that the Assembly must strictly comply with constitutional provisions, standing rules, and judicial precedents, noting that any impeachment carried out in haste or bad faith would lack legitimacy.

    The organisation also maintained that the governor must be granted full constitutional protections, including adequate time to respond and an impartial investigative process.

    According to CLO, the budget dispute cannot be isolated from the broader political and institutional crisis in the state.

    It urged all parties to prioritise dialogue, calling on the governor to initiate engagement by presenting the 2026 budget to the Assembly.

    History of crisis

    The political crisis in Rivers began shortly after Fubara assumed office in May 2023, following a dramatic fallout with his predecessor and political benefactor, Wike.

    The rift, initially a struggle for control of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure and state resources, quickly spread to the legislature.

    A faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly aligned with Wike moved to assert authority, while Fubara was accused by lawmakers of sidelining the Assembly, withholding funds, and governing without legislative backing.

    Tensions peaked in October 2023 with the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, an action widely interpreted as an attempt to weaken the legislature.

    This deepened institutional paralysis, leading to rival claims of legitimacy within the Assembly and prolonged court battles over budgetary approvals and executive authority.

    Despite judicial interventions, the crisis worsened, with governance effectively stalled amid accusations of constitutional breaches, unauthorised spending, and legislative obstruction.

    The breakdown of order and governance, and the bombing of an oil infrastructure, eventually prompted the presidential declaration of a state of emergency in the state, suspending key democratic institutions in an attempt to restore stability.

    Retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas was appointed as the Administrator for six months.

    At the end of the emergency rule, Fubara joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    Wike, backed by loyal lawmakers and political allies, launched a statewide mobilisation drive under the banner of the “Rainbow Coalition,” positioning it as a broad-based political movement aimed at reclaiming Rivers State, re-electing President Tinubu and defending constitutional order ahead of future elections.

    The Wike-led coalition’s tour has further sharpened political tensions, with the minister also clashing with APC National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru over alleged interference, signalling that the underlying power struggle between rival camps remains unresolved.

  • Youths clash over Fubara’s impeachment proceedings

    Youths clash over Fubara’s impeachment proceedings

    The Rivers State Youth Parliament (RSYP) and the South South Youths Initiative (SSYI) have disagreed over the ongoing move by the Rivers Assembly to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara 

    The RSYP in a statement by its Speaker, Wisdom Bruce, declared support for the decision of the lawmakers to investigate Fubara on alleged gross misconduct.

    The statement said: “This action, though long overdue, is both timely and necessary in the overriding interest of peace, stability, democratic governance, and the collective future of the people of Rivers State.

    “Over an extended period, the state has witnessed persistent political tension, breakdown of trust among critical stakeholders, and repeated breaches of peace accords brokered severally by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other well-meaning national leaders. 

    “These peace agreements were entered into in good faith, with the clear expectation that all parties would respect their terms in the spirit of reconciliation, unity, and responsible leadership. 

    “Regrettably, these agreements have been consistently violated by the governor of Rivers state thereby undermining national efforts to restore calm and political stability in Rivers State.

    “The Rivers State Youth Parliament views these repeated breaches as a grave affront to democratic norms, constitutional responsibility, and the authority of conflict-resolution mechanisms established to protect the peace and welfare of citizens.

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    ” Leadership at all levels must be anchored on accountability, respect for dialogue, and adherence to agreements reached through lawful and inclusive processes. Where these principles are persistently disregarded, constitutional remedies must be pursued without fear or favour.

    “We emphasise that impeachment, as provided for under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is not an act of vendetta but a legitimate democratic process designed to safeguard governance, uphold the rule of law, and protect the public interest. 

    “The Rivers State Youth Parliament is particularly concerned about the long-term consequences of prolonged political crises, economic stagnation, loss of investor confidence, and shrinking opportunities for young citizens, lack of employment and others. Our generation bears the brunt of governance failures, and we therefore cannot remain silent when leadership actions continually threaten peace and development”.

    But the South South Youths Initiative (SSYI) condemned the renewed impeachment proceedings against describing the move as ill-conceived and destabilising.

    SSYI said youths across the South-South region, particularly in Rivers were deeply disturbed by the impeachment notice issued by the State House of Assembly.

    The position of the group was contained in a statement by its National President,  Imeabe Saviour Oscar on Thursday. 

    Saviour said the action by the lawmakers was coming at a time when Rivers people expected cooperation between the executive and the legislature to restore effective governance after what it described as a six-month near collapse during the period of emergency rule.

    He said: “Rivers youths are appalled that this is coming at a point when we are all expecting that the legislature would work closely with the governor to give Rivers State the desired governance that has been lacking since the return from Emergency Rule.  

    “While other states are talking about governance, Rivers State is still playing politics despite coming out from a six-month near collapse of governance. This is most unfortunate. Even though we are aware that the country is about to enter a political season, this action by the Assembly is too sudden and ill-conceived.”

    The group appealed to the lawmakers to work with the Governor to deliver good governance instead of distracting his administration and advised Fubara to remain focused despite what it described as political distractions.

  • Tacha reacts to Fubara impeachment controversy

    Tacha reacts to Fubara impeachment controversy

    Big Brother Naija star Tacha has expressed frustration and sadness over the renewed impeachment process against Rivers Governor, Sim Fubara, citing the persistent political instability that has stalled progress in her home state.

    In a statement on X, Tacha lamented the lack of development in Rivers State, contrasting it with Lagos, which she says is moving forward despite its problems.

    “This is why I don’t criticise Lagos. It has its problems, but at least there is progress,” she said.

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    Tacha called on residents of Rivers State to unite and address the challenges facing the state.

    “I genuinely feel sad for Rivers State. Fact is, I grew up there, I love that place deeply. But every time Rivers is in the news, it’s one political fight or the other. No progress stories. No excitement. Just live chaos. And for the past two years, not one solid development headline. You start to wonder how businesses and investments are even surviving. This is why I don’t drag Lagos.

    “Lagos has issues, yes, but at least it’s moving. When I look at R/S, I just ask: when will this state be allowed to breathe? When will the people breathe? With what’s happening now, it’s clear the next few years are already being wasted till the next elections. It’s a shame. I pray one day the people of Rivers get tired, come together, and truly fix the state,” she wrote.

  • Rivers Assembly serves Fubara, Deputy notice of gross misconducts

    Rivers Assembly serves Fubara, Deputy notice of gross misconducts

    A few hours after receiving documents containing alleged gross misconducts against Rivers Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, from 26 lawmakers,  Speaker Martin’s Amaewhule has transmitted letters containing the allegations to the Governor and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.

    The letters entitled: “Notice of allegations of gross misconduct” brought pursuant to Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 was dated January 8, 2026 and signed by Amaewhule.

    In the letter Amaewhule informed the Governor that he received a notice of allegations of gross misconduct dated January 5th, 2026 against him from 26 members of the Rivers Assembly.

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    He said the number that signed the notice represented two-third of the membership of the Assembly.

    Amaewhule said he forwarded the notice to the governor in pursuant to Section 188 (1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended .

    Addressing the Governor, he said: “You are requested to reply to the allegations of gross misconduct accordingly. In doing this, your attention is drawn to the provisions of section 188 of the constitution”.

    A similar letter was also sent to the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu.