JUST IN: Rivers State Assembly Initiates Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara, Deputy

The Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday formally commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.

During a plenary session led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, Majority Leader Major Jack presented a notice detailing allegations of gross misconduct against the governor. Citing Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, the notice outlined seven claims, including the demolition of the Assembly Complex, extra-budgetary spending, withholding funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission, and refusal to comply with a Supreme Court ruling on the financial autonomy of the House. The notice was signed by 26 Assembly members.

Speaker Amaewhule said the notice will be officially served to the governor within seven days.

Deputy Leader Linda Stewart also tabled a notice of gross misconduct against Deputy Governor Odu. The allegations include unauthorized and reckless spending of public funds, obstructing the Assembly from fulfilling its constitutional duties, allowing unvetted individuals to occupy official offices, seeking budget approvals outside the Assembly, and seizing salaries and allowances due to the House and the Assembly Service Commission.

The Assembly has now entered a critical phase as these proceedings set the stage for potential political upheaval in the state.