The International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights (ISSJHR) has issued a strong condemnation of the impeachment proceedings initiated against Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu. The group warned members of the Rivers State House of Assembly against misinterpreting the calm demeanor of the state's citizens as a sign of weakness.
A Stern Warning Against Constitutional Recklessness
In a statement released in Port Harcourt, the Chancellor of ISSJHR, Omenazu Jackson, labeled the move to impeach the governor as an act that is anti-democratic and a clear abuse of legislative power. Jackson emphasized that the impeachment process is not a tool for political warfare but a serious constitutional mechanism.
He pointed directly to Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which lays down strict requirements for such an action. According to the law, any impeachment must be based on proven allegations of gross misconduct and must follow due process meticulously, including fair hearing and investigation by a judicial panel.
"The Constitution requires clear allegations of gross misconduct, due process, fair hearing, legislative quorum, judicial panel investigation and strict procedural compliance. Any deviation renders such impeachment null, void and unconstitutional," Jackson stated unequivocally.
Separation of Powers Must Be Respected
The ISSJHR chancellor further invoked Sections 4, 5, and 6 of the Constitution, which enshrine the doctrine of separation of powers. He stressed that no arm of government has the authority to dominate or intimidate another into submission.
"The legislature cannot lawfully intimidate or harass the executive into surrendering its constitutional mandate or policy direction outside the confines of the law," Jackson added. He called for both the executive and legislative arms in Rivers State to exercise restraint and operate within their constitutional boundaries to ensure peace and development.
The group's core message is that Governor Fubara's mandate comes directly from the people of Rivers State, and therefore, he cannot be forced to act against their collective interest. Any attempt to remove him without adhering strictly to constitutional provisions would be an assault on democracy itself.
Potential Consequences and a Call for Restraint
ISSJHR did not mince words in addressing what it called "crisis merchants, political opportunists and constitutional saboteurs." The organization cautioned these elements to stop actions that could push Rivers State into instability, warning of lawful resistance from the electorate.
"They must be mindful of the lawful resistance of an electorate whose socioeconomic existence is threatened by this ill-conceived, vindictive and illegitimate impeachment attempt," Jackson warned.
He concluded by asserting that any unconstitutional attempt to remove the governor would be met with stout and lawful opposition from the people, utilizing all democratic and legal avenues available within Nigeria's framework. The statement serves as a powerful reminder that the patience of the Rivers people should not be tested.
