Rivers Chief Judge Declines to Form Impeachment Panel Against Governor Fubara
In a significant development in Rivers State, the Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, has formally declined to constitute a judicial panel to investigate Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu. This decision comes amidst ongoing political tensions and legal battles surrounding allegations of gross misconduct against the state's executive leadership.
Background of the Assembly's Request
Recall that last week, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly submitted a formal request to the Chief Judge, urging the establishment of a seven-member panel. This panel was intended to probe Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu over serious allegations, including the unauthorized spending of unbudgeted funds from the state coffers. The Assembly's move was part of an impeachment process that has been brewing in the state's political landscape.
The request, dated January 16, 2026, was accompanied by extensive documentation. This included copies of the notice of allegations of gross misconduct, the Rivers State Impeachment Panel (Conduct of Investigations) Procedure from 2025, and relevant newspaper publications that detailed the accusations. The Assembly sought to initiate a thorough investigation into the alleged misconduct, which they claimed warranted impeachment proceedings.
Chief Judge's Formal Response
Justice Amadi's position was conveyed in a formal letter addressed to the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule. In the correspondence, the Chief Judge acknowledged receipt of two separate requests from the legislature, both dated January 16, 2026. However, he cited a critical legal obstacle that prevented him from proceeding with the Assembly's directive.
According to Justice Amadi, his office had been served with two interim injunctions issued by the Rivers State High Court sitting in Oyigbo on the same date, January 16, 2026. These court orders explicitly restrain the Chief Judge from taking any action related to the impeachment process for a period of seven days.
Details of the Court Injunctions
The suits in question are OYHC/6/CS/2026, filed by Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and OYHC/7/CS/2026, filed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. In these cases, the Speaker of the House of Assembly and 32 others are listed as defendants, with the Chief Judge named as the 32nd defendant. The interim orders specifically prohibit the Chief Judge from "receiving, forwarding, considering or howsoever acting on any request, resolution, articles of impeachment or other communication" from the House of Assembly regarding the impeachment process.
Certified true copies of these court orders were attached to the Chief Judge's correspondence to the Speaker, underscoring the legal basis for his decision. This move highlights the complex interplay between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches in Rivers State, as they navigate the impeachment proceedings.
Implications for the Impeachment Process
The Chief Judge's refusal to set up the panel has significant implications for the ongoing impeachment saga in Rivers State. It effectively stalls the Assembly's efforts to move forward with the investigation into Governor Fubara and his deputy, at least for the duration of the court-ordered restraint period. This development may lead to further legal battles and political maneuvering as both sides seek to assert their positions.
Observers note that this situation underscores the importance of judicial oversight in impeachment processes, ensuring that such actions are conducted within the bounds of the law. The involvement of the High Court in Oyigbo adds another layer of complexity to the case, as it intervenes to prevent potential overreach by the legislative branch.
As the seven-day restraint period unfolds, all eyes will be on Rivers State to see how this political and legal drama progresses. The Chief Judge's adherence to the court orders demonstrates a commitment to legal due process, even in the face of intense political pressure. This episode serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of power in Nigeria's democratic system, where each branch must operate within its constitutional limits.
