Two more Rivers lawmakers call for halt to Fubara impeachment

Two lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly have urged their colleagues to suspend the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, as political tensions in the state continue to escalate.

The appeal was made on Wednesday in Port Harcourt by Barile Nwakoh, deputy minority leader representing Khana Constituency I, and Emilia Amadi of Obio/Akpor Constituency II, during a press briefing.

This follows a similar call on Monday by Sylvanus Nwankwo, the house minority leader representing Omuma State Constituency, alongside Peter Abbey of Degema State Constituency, who asked lawmakers to “temper justice with mercy” and explore alternatives to the removal of the governor and his deputy.

“We are appealing to our colleagues to reconsider the step and see how this matter can be resolved amicably,” Nwankwo said, acknowledging that while the governor and deputy governor may have infringed on the constitution, dialogue and compromise could prevent further escalation.

The impeachment process formally began last Thursday after Major Jack, the assembly leader, read charges of gross misconduct against Fubara, supported by signatures from 26 members of the house.

READ ALSO: Rivers Police invite ex-SSG Danagogo over alleged assassination plot against Wike

The move comes amid ongoing rifts between the state’s executive and legislative arms, intensifying political uncertainty in Rivers.

Political analysts note that the majority of lawmakers remain loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, who has openly campaigned against Fubara’s re-election bid.

Wike accused the governor of violating a peace agreement both men signed before President Bola Tinubu lifted the state’s emergency rule.

Chukwuemeka Okoye, a political commentator in Port Harcourt, observed: “The calls for suspension reflect a growing concern among some legislators about the potential fallout of removing the governor and deputy at a politically sensitive time. It signals an attempt to manage conflict and avoid a constitutional crisis while tensions run high.”

Observers say the outcome of these appeals could shape Rivers’ political landscape ahead of the next election cycle, with stakeholders closely watching whether the assembly will heed calls for restraint or proceed with the impeachment.