The Rivers State House of Assembly raises fresh concerns over alleged secret moves by unnamed individuals to undermine the ongoing impeachment process involving the Governor and Deputy Governor of the state. The lawmakers say the actions target the constitutional powers of the Assembly and threaten democratic order.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the Assembly discloses that it receives credible intelligence indicating that some persons plan to approach Rivers State High Courts outside the Port Harcourt Judicial Division to obtain ex parte orders. The House says such orders are allegedly aimed at stopping lawmakers from carrying out their constitutional duties.
In a statement issued on January 11, 2026, the Assembly warns that any attempt to restrain the legislature through what it describes as backdoor legal tactics amounts to a direct assault on the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Lawmakers insist that impeachment procedures are clearly guided by constitutional provisions and cannot be halted by court orders.
The Assembly, as reported by Mediaplusng.com, cites Sections 272(3) and 188(10) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). These sections, the House explains, limit court jurisdiction in matters related to the tenure of elected officials and expressly bar courts from entertaining cases connected to impeachment proceedings.
Lawmakers also refer to recent judgments of the Court of Appeal, which reportedly nullify similar ex parte orders issued in the past. According to the Assembly, the appellate court clearly affirms that impeachment is a legislative function and should not be interfered with by the judiciary once due process is followed.
The House states that all affected office holders have already been properly served with notices of allegations of gross misconduct, in line with constitutional requirements. It stresses that those involved are expected to respond through the laid-down legal and legislative channels rather than resort to what it describes as “subterranean moves” to frustrate the process.
The Assembly warns that seeking court orders from divisions without proper jurisdiction is not only unlawful but also capable of creating confusion and tension in the state. Lawmakers say such actions could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
With the approval of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, the House calls on all individuals and groups involved to exercise restraint and respect constitutional boundaries. The Assembly urges legal practitioners and judicial officers to remain guided by the Constitution and existing judicial precedents.
The lawmakers reaffirm their commitment to transparency, due process, and democratic governance. They insist that the impeachment process, as provided by law, will continue without intimidation, distraction, or unlawful interference.
The House also cautions against any attempt to malign the Assembly or threaten its members in the course of carrying out their duties. It assures residents of Rivers State that its actions are guided solely by the Constitution and the collective interest of the people.
The Assembly maintains that impeachment is not a political vendetta but a constitutional mechanism meant to ensure accountability in governance. It says no individual is above the law and that all public office holders must remain subject to constitutional oversight.
The statement is signed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Hon. Dr. Enemi Alabo George. He reiterates that the Assembly stands firm on its constitutional mandate and will continue to act within the limits of the law to protect democratic institutions in Rivers State.
As tensions rise around the political process, the House appeals to the public to remain calm and law-abiding. It assures citizens that the legislature remains focused on its responsibilities and will not allow any action capable of destabilising the state or weakening Nigeria’s democracy.
