A high-ranking source within the Rivers State Government House has confirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is yet to be formally served with an impeachment notice, three days after 27 state lawmakers initiated proceedings against him and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu.
Impeachment Notice Yet to Be Delivered
The source, who spoke on Monday evening under condition of anonymity, stated that neither the governor nor his deputy had reviewed any official communication from the State House of Assembly. This comes despite a promise from the Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, to deliver the impeachment letter.
"I can tell you for free that the governor and his deputy have not reviewed any notice from the Assembly," the source said. The governor, who returned from an overseas trip on Sunday, attended a church service for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day and has been occupied with state duties, including inspecting ongoing projects.
Internal Rift as Lawmakers Appeal for Caution
In a significant development on Monday, two lawmakers originally aligned with the impeachment plot publicly called for its suspension. Minority Leader Sylvanus Nwankwo and Peter Abbey, representing Degema State Constituency, held a press conference in Port Harcourt urging their colleagues to seek a peaceful resolution.
Sylvanus Nwankwo appealed for colleagues to "temper justice with mercy," citing interventions from elders and leaders within and outside Rivers State. He acknowledged the constitutional allegations but pleaded for an amicable settlement.
Peter Abbey echoed this sentiment, stating that while the governor may have infringed on parts of the constitution, humanity should prevail. He also stressed that Governor Fubara has a responsibility to de-escalate tensions by avoiding further constitutional breaches.
Wike's Tour and the Opobo Omission
The political drama unfolded a day after the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, concluded a 'thank you tour' of Rivers State local government areas. Notably, Wike did not visit Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, which is Governor Fubara's home constituency.
An All Progressives Congress chieftain suggested the omission was deliberate due to the current political tension, likening a visit to "putting your hand in a crocodile-infested water." The politician also claimed that turnout was low during Wike's visit to the neighbouring Bonny LGA.
Wike's tour concluded in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area with a large rally that caused a traffic gridlock. Separately, on Monday, Wike accused unnamed political leaders of deliberately misleading Governor Fubara and misinforming the public about a previously endorsed peace deal.
Amidst these tensions, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has stepped in to form a reconciliation committee, emphasizing the urgent need to restore stability in the oil-rich state.
