Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has stirred reactions with a humorous claim that the impeachment notice served on him by the state's House of Assembly was nothing but a 'love letter'. The governor made this remark in a now-viral video, addressing the ongoing political turmoil in the oil-rich state.
Constitutional Breaches Trigger Impeachment Move
The Rivers State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara, citing his consistent breach of the constitution. The lawmakers have vowed to proceed with the process, detailing various constitutional violations they accuse the governor of committing. This move underscores the deepening rift between the executive and legislative arms of the state government.
Presidential Interventions and a Six-Month Suspension
President Bola Tinubu has intervened twice to halt the impeachment process against Governor Fubara. The most significant intervention was the declaration of a state of emergency, which resulted in the suspension of the governor, his deputy, and the state lawmakers for six months. Despite these federal actions, the political standoff in Rivers State appears far from resolved.
Mixed Public Reactions to Fubara's 'Love Letter' Comment
The governor's lighthearted take on the serious impeachment threat has sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerians online, highlighting a clear division in public opinion.
Joel Dappa criticized the governor for contradicting himself, noting that Fubara had previously claimed in court that he received no impeachment notice, yet now admits to getting a 'love letter'.
In contrast, Comrade Iba Monso commended Fubara's political strategy, praising his ability to navigate the 'landmines' laid by his predecessor and political rival, Nyesom Wike.
Other comments were less supportive. A user named Jeskynblog suggested that President Tinubu would not support Fubara over the influential former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, questioning Fubara's political strength within his own state.
Melvyn described Governor Fubara as a 'troublemaker' who is not genuinely seeking peace, while Sylvester echoed the sentiment that Tinubu would not sacrifice his relationship with Wike for Fubara.
This political drama unfolds alongside a separate security allegation. The police have invited Tammy Danagogo, an ally of Governor Fubara, over an alleged assassination plot against Minister Nyesom Wike, based on a leaked telephone conversation. This development further intensifies the political tensions in Rivers State.
