Rivers Crisis: Lawmakers Serve Misconduct Notice Against Governor Fubara, Deputy
On March 14, 2025, the Rivers State House of Assembly issued a notice of alleged misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.
This marks the second impeachment attempt against Governor Fubara since his election in 2023, amid an ongoing political power struggle between him and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the FCT Minister.
A total of 26 lawmakers signed the petition and submitted it to the Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule.
Below are the allegations of gross misconduct leveled against Governor Fubara and his deputy.
Allegations of Gross Misconduct
1. Unconstitutional Expenditure of Public Funds
Governor Fubara is accused of violating Sections 120, 121 (1)(2), and 122 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) by recklessly spending public funds.
2. Obstructing Legislative Functions
Fubara allegedly obstructed the House of Assembly from performing its constitutional duties.
Particulars:
- Personally ordered the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex on December 13, 2023, despite a court injunction prohibiting such action.
- The Federal High Court (January 22, 2024) and the Supreme Court (February 28, 2025) condemned the demolition as unlawful.
3. Illegal Appointments Without Legislative Approval
Governor Fubara allegedly appointed government officials without screening and confirmation by the legitimate Rivers State House of Assembly.
Particulars:
- Appointed Attorney-General Dagogo Iboroma and 19 commissioners without legislative approval.
- Swore in officials for the State Bureau of Public Procurement and the Local Government Service Commission without due process.
4. Seizure of Legislative Funds
Governor Fubara allegedly withheld salaries and allowances of lawmakers, violating Section 121(3) of the Constitution.
Particulars:
- Stopped paying salaries to 26 lawmakers and withheld Assembly funds since April 2024 to frustrate legislative functions.
5. Withholding Salary of Clerk of the House
- The Clerk of the House, Emeka Amadi, has been denied his salary in violation of a Federal High Court order.
Conclusion
The lawmakers argue that Governor Fubara has failed to uphold the Constitution and his oath of office. The Supreme Court (SC/CV/1174/2024) has condemned his actions, stating that political disagreements do not justify unconstitutional behavior.
The impeachment process now moves to the next phase as lawmakers push for further action against the governor and his deputy.
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