In a surprising turn of events, two key lawmakers in Rivers State have withdrawn from the ongoing impeachment initiative against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy. Sylvanus Nwankwo, the Minority Leader representing Omuma State Constituency, and Peter Abbey, who represents Degema Constituency at the Rivers State House of Assembly, publicly announced their reversal during a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday. The lawmakers revealed that their decision to step back from the impeachment proceedings came after appeals from respected elders and influential leaders within the state. They urged their colleagues to exercise caution and reconsider the steps taken against the governor and his deputy. “Rivers State issued a notice of impeachment on Governor Fubara and his Deputy. We appeal to our fellow colleagues to temper justice with mercy and see how we can solve this matter without resorting to impeachment,” the duo stated. Nwankwo and Abbey emphasized the need for reconciliation and peaceful resolution, stressing that the governor and his deputy may have infringed upon constitutional provisions, but the situation could still be resolved amicably. “Having listened to so many calls from our elders and leaders, both within and outside the state, we are urging our colleagues to reconsider our steps and explore ways to resolve this matter without proceeding with impeachment,” they added. LMSINT MEDIA confirms that the impeachment notice against Governor Fubara and his deputy was formally served last Thursday, following allegations of gross misconduct. This sudden U-turn by the lawmakers has created a new dimension to the political landscape in Rivers State, as stakeholders and residents now await further developments. Political analysts have noted that the involvement of state elders in such high-stake matters demonstrates the influence of traditional structures in governance, emphasizing dialogue and mediation over legal confrontation. This development could reshape the ongoing political discussions in Rivers State, highlighting the importance of compromise in resolving governmental disputes. For ongoing updates on Rivers State politics and related governance issues, you can also check our detailed coverage on Rivers State Assembly news.
The recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has triggered intense reactions across Nigeria. Various stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), legal analysts, political figures, and groups such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Ijaw Youths, have expressed divergent opinions. While many have criticized the move, others see it as a strategic intervention in the unfolding political turmoil. Hon. Obidike Chukwuebuka, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has praised President Tinubu’s decision, stating that Governor Siminalayi Fubara should be grateful for the intervention. According to Obidike, Tinubu’s move effectively prevented an imminent impeachment that could have led to Fubara’s removal from office. In a statement shared with Vanguard on Wednesday, Obidike highlighted Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the President to declare a state of emergency, thereby suspending the authority of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and other state government structures. He argued that this legal provision granted Tinubu the authority to stabilize Rivers State’s governance during the crisis. Although reports of an impeachment plot against Governor Fubara remain unverified, Tinubu’s intervention has undoubtedly reshaped the state’s political dynamics. His efforts to foster peace and cooperation were further demonstrated in a recent high-level meeting involving Fubara and key stakeholders. The President reportedly emphasized the need for unity and political stability to ensure effective governance in Rivers State. “As developments continue to unfold, it is evident that Governor Fubara’s political trajectory is closely linked to President Tinubu’s influence,” Obidike remarked, suggesting that the intervention could have long-term ramifications for the state’s governance. Read more about Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution and state of emergency provisions READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
