Political Turmoil in Rivers State: Assembly Moves Against Governor Fubara

The political crisis in Rivers State has escalated as the State House of Assembly has issued a notice of “gross misconduct” against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu—marking the first step in a potential impeachment process.

Martins Wachukwu, the special assistant on media to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, confirmed the development to TheCable on Monday. This latest move underscores the deepening rift within the state’s political landscape, fueled by an ongoing power struggle between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Rivers State has been embroiled in a political tug-of-war, with the Assembly increasingly divided along factional lines. The turmoil reached new heights on February 28 when the Supreme Court upheld a Federal High Court ruling that barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant-General of the Federation from disbursing the state’s statutory monthly allocations.

Adding to the tensions, the court also nullified the local government elections held on October 5, 2024—a decision that further inflamed the already volatile situation.

In response, Governor Fubara pledged to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling, signalling a willingness to seek a resolution. He extended an olive branch by inviting the lawmakers to a meeting, but his overtures were rejected. The legislators, citing procedural concerns, refused to engage.

To restore order, Fubara later submitted a request to the Assembly, seeking a new date to present the 2025 appropriation bill. However, within 24 hours of receiving his letter, the Assembly abruptly adjourned plenary indefinitely—a move widely interpreted as a strategic manoeuvre in the ongoing power struggle.

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The deep-seated conflict between Fubara and Wike has been brewing since 2023, culminating in a dramatic impeachment attempt that led to the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly building. Now, with the latest impeachment proceedings looming, tensions are once again at a boiling point.

On Saturday, the faction of the Assembly loyal to Wike accused Fubara of “playing to the gallery,” further fueling the discord.