The Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) has formally commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, following the presentation of allegations of gross misconduct on the floor of the House. The move takes place during plenary on Thursday, marking a major escalation in the ongoing political crisis in the state.
During the session, the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Major Jack, formally notifies the Speaker of a notice of gross misconduct against the governor, Mediaplusng.com reports. He anchors the action on Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which outlines the procedure for the impeachment of a sitting governor.
Hon. Jack presents seven allegations against Governor Fubara, accusing him of actions that allegedly undermine the authority and independence of the legislature. Among the claims are the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, alleged extra-budgetary spending, and the withholding of funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission.
The notice further accuses the governor of refusing to comply with a Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to the House of Assembly. Lawmakers argue that these actions amount to a clear breach of constitutional provisions and legislative authority, Mediaplusng.com understands.
Shortly after the notice against the governor is laid before the Speaker, the Deputy Leader of the House, Hon. Linda Stewart, also presents a separate notice of gross misconduct against the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu. The allegations against the deputy governor are similarly rooted in claims of constitutional violations and abuse of office.
According to the notice, the deputy governor is accused of reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds, obstructing the House of Assembly from performing its constitutional duties, and allegedly allowing unauthorised persons to occupy government offices without proper screening by the Assembly.
Other accusations include allegedly seeking budgetary approval from groups outside the legally constituted Rivers State House of Assembly and the seizure of salaries and allowances due to lawmakers and the Assembly Service Commission. Lawmakers insist these actions weaken democratic governance and the rule of law in the state.
The Speaker acknowledges receipt of both notices during the plenary session. The House is expected to follow constitutional procedures in determining the next steps, including possible service of the allegations on the affected officials and the formation of an investigative panel if the process advances.
The development signals a critical moment in Rivers State politics, as attention now turns to how the impeachment process unfolds and its implications for governance, stability, and constitutional order in the oil-rich state.
