The political crisis rocking Rivers State has taken a significant turn in favour of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as the impeachment process against him and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, suffers another major setback.
Fresh Withdrawals Weaken Impeachment Push
Two additional members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have formally withdrawn their support from the impeachment petition, dealing a blow to the efforts to remove the state's chief executive. Barile Nwakoh of Khana Constituency I and Emilia Amadi of Obio/Akpor Constituency II announced their decision to step back from the process.
This development comes barely 48 hours after two other legislators, Minority Leader Sylvanus Nwankwo (Omuma Constituency) and Peter Abbey (Degema Constituency), publicly distanced themselves from the impeachment move during a press briefing in Port Harcourt.
Appeals for Peace and Stability Drive Lawmakers' U-turn
The lawmakers cited interventions from respected leaders and stakeholders across the state as the primary reason for their change of position. According to reports, these influential figures appealed for restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation of the political tension.
While the legislators maintained that Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu might have breached certain constitutional provisions, they stressed that pursuing impeachment at this critical juncture could further inflame passions and destabilise governance in the oil-rich state.
They have called on their colleagues to prioritise peaceful engagement and explore alternative conflict resolution mechanisms to break the ongoing political impasse.
Implications and Next Steps for Rivers Assembly
With these latest withdrawals, four out of the 26 lawmakers who initially endorsed the notice of alleged gross misconduct have now pulled back from the impeachment process. This signals growing unease within the legislative house about the direction and potential consequences of the political confrontation.
The withdrawals have strengthened calls from both within and outside the Assembly for reconciliation rather than escalation. All eyes are now on the Rivers State House of Assembly, which is scheduled to reconvene plenary on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
The leadership of the House faces the challenging task of managing the widening divisions among members and determining the next course of action regarding the impeachment notice. The unfolding developments suggest a shifting mood within the Assembly as pressure mounts to de-escalate the crisis and find a political solution that preserves stability in Rivers State.
Meanwhile, a source indicates that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is yet to receive any formal impeachment notice despite the proceedings initiated by lawmakers believed to be loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The political drama continues as stakeholders watch whether the legislature will proceed with the impeachment or seek alternative resolutions to the conflict.
