Rivers Political Crisis: Assembly Moves Against Governor Fubara, Deputy Over Alleged Misconduct
The political crisis in Rivers State has taken a new turn as the State House of Assembly has officially served a notice of alleged gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu. This latest development intensifies the ongoing power struggle between the executive and the legislative arm of government in the state.
The notice, obtained by ChannelsTV, states:
“In compliance with Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and other extant laws, we, the undersigned members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, hereby forward to you a Notice of Gross Misconduct by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State in the performance of the functions of her office.”
Budget Presentation Dispute Deepens Rift
This move comes amid an unresolved conflict between Governor Fubara and the Assembly over the presentation of the 2025 budget. Despite a Supreme Court directive for the governor to present the budget before the Assembly, Speaker Martin Amaewhule-led lawmakers abruptly adjourned their session indefinitely, frustrating the governor’s attempts to comply with the court order.
Governor Fubara had earlier written to the Assembly on March 13, proposing a new date for the budget presentation, either on March 19 or another convenient day. However, the lawmakers’ decision to suspend plenary has further stalled the budgetary process, exacerbating the already tense political atmosphere in the state.
Locked Out of Legislative Complex
On March 12, Governor Fubara faced a dramatic standoff at the Assembly complex when security personnel barred him and his entourage from entering. This action, reportedly carried out on the orders of the Assembly leadership, was justified on the grounds that there was no official communication regarding the governor’s visit. Fubara, however, insists that he had duly notified the Speaker and made attempts to reach him via phone prior to his arrival.
Adding to the political tension, the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, had earlier sent a letter dated March 7, requesting a meeting with lawmakers on March 10 to discuss the budget re-presentation and initiate a peace dialogue. The lawmakers, however, did not honor the request, further fueling speculations of a deliberate effort to undermine the governor.
Presidency’s Intervention and Political Ramifications
President Bola Tinubu has intervened in the crisis, urging members of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) to ensure Governor Fubara adheres to the Supreme Court ruling. In a closed-door meeting with PANDEF leaders at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu expressed his disappointment over the situation and reiterated his commitment to upholding the rule of law.
“I foresaw this crisis long before I stepped in. We reached an agreement—a written agreement—which both parties signed,” Tinubu stated. “It is sad we find ourselves in this situation today. This is a nation with a rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary. Now, the Supreme Court has spoken—that is it.”
Despite the presidential intervention, tensions remain high as political stakeholders and ethnic groups weigh in on the situation. Ijaw groups, viewing Fubara as their representative, have warned against any attempt to remove him from office. Some factions have even threatened resistance, raising concerns over potential unrest in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Power Struggle Between Fubara and Wike
At the heart of the crisis is the power tussle between Governor Fubara and his estranged political mentor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Rivers Assembly, which remains largely loyal to Wike, has been at odds with Fubara since his assumption of office. The fallout between both men led to an earlier impeachment attempt against Fubara in 2024, necessitating multiple interventions from the presidency and political stakeholders.
With the latest impeachment notice, the battle for political supremacy in Rivers State has reached a critical juncture. While the governor’s supporters insist that the allegations against him are politically motivated, the Assembly appears determined to see the process through.
As the situation unfolds, Rivers State residents and political observers wait anxiously to see whether the latest impeachment move will succeed or whether Governor Fubara will weather yet another political storm.
Reference
Rivers Political Crisis: Assembly Moves Against Governor Fubara, Deputy Over Alleged Misconduct