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In a dramatic turn of events, the Rivers State House of Assembly has issued a notice of alleged gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu. The move, which follows months of intense political wrangling, was made public through a document obtained by Channels Television and is expected to further deepen the ongoing crisis in the state.
According to the lawmakers, their action aligns with Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the impeachment process for governors and deputy governors. Speaker Martin Amaewhule, who led the charge, confirmed that 26 lawmakers—more than the required one-third of the House—endorsed the allegations.
“In compliance with Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and other extant laws, we the undersigned members of the Rivers State House of Assembly hereby forward to you a Notice of Gross Misconduct,” the document reads.
Political Implications: A Brewing Storm
This latest development is yet another episode in the ongoing power struggle between Governor Fubara and loyalists of former Governor Nyesom Wike in the House of Assembly. The feud, which has resulted in multiple failed impeachment attempts, has created a deeply polarized political landscape in Rivers State.While the governor has not officially responded to the notice, the Speaker has directed him to reply within 14 days as per constitutional requirements. If the allegations proceed to investigation, this could set the stage for a potential impeachment showdown or force a new round of political negotiations between both factions.
Political observers believe the move could be part of a broader strategy to pressure Fubara into submission, given that Wike—now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—has maintained a firm grip on the state’s political machinery.
Backstory: A House Divided
The crisis dates back to January 2024, when a factional split within the House led to two competing groups of lawmakers. Governor Fubara, struggling for control, presented and signed the N1.1 trillion 2025 budget with a rival faction led by Victor Oko-Jumbo. However, a recent Supreme Court ruling invalidated the legislative actions of Oko-Jumbo’s group, reaffirming Amaewhule’s faction as the legally recognized Assembly.
This ruling effectively stripped Fubara of legislative backing, leaving him vulnerable to political maneuvering from the Assembly, which has now issued the gross misconduct notice.
Adding fuel to the fire, the former Governor Wike recently stated that he would not stand in the way of lawmakers if they decide to impeach Fubara—an indication that the situation may soon reach a boiling point.
What Happens Next?
The coming days will be critical in determining Fubara’s political fate. The options on the table include:Impeachment Proceedings: If the House moves forward with an investigation, Fubara could face removal from office, depending on the findings.
Political Negotiation: Behind-the-scenes deals could result in a power-sharing agreement between Fubara and Wike’s loyalists.
Judicial Intervention: If the governor challenges the allegations in court, the crisis could extend into a prolonged legal battle.
With the political heat rising in Rivers State, all eyes will be on Fubara’s response—and whether he can survive this latest challenge to his authority.
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