Rivers State Power Struggle: Fresh Impeachment Hurdles for Governor Fubara

The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has taken a dramatic turn as factions within the state government intensify efforts to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara from office. The battle for control between the state legislature, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and Governor Fubara has escalated, with impeachment threats looming large.

Wike: “Heaven Will Not Fall If Fubara Is Impeached”

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister and former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed fears of unrest should Fubara be removed from office. Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, Wike justified the impeachment moves, accusing Fubara of constitutional violations, including withholding lawmakers’ salaries.

“If you have committed an infraction and the Assembly deems it fit to say you should be impeached, then so be it. I have heard people say that there will be a breakdown of law and order—rubbish! Nothing will happen,” Wike stated.

In a surprising turn of events, Governor Fubara was barred from entering the Rivers State House of Assembly complex when he attempted to re-present the 2025 budget. Despite Supreme Court directives, the assembly was locked, and security personnel were absent.

Accompanied by top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, and Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, the governor was forced to address the media outside the locked gates before leaving. Speaker Amaewhule and his faction later convened a session, denying knowledge of the governor’s attempted visit.

Fubara’s allies, including opposition lawmakers and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), have vowed to resist any impeachment attempts. A coalition of opposition lawmakers accused pro-Wike factions of plotting to destabilize Rivers State by frustrating the local government elections and blocking the 2025 budget passage.

The IYC warned of dire consequences should Fubara be impeached, stating that such actions could threaten the state’s stability. They accused Wike of attempting to maintain control over Rivers’ resources, which Fubara has resisted.

APC Threatens Impeachment if Fubara Does Not Resign

Tony Okocha, chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), declared that Fubara must resign within 72 hours or face impeachment. Okocha cited the governor’s alleged disregard for a court ruling that recognized Amaewhule as the legitimate Speaker as grounds for removal.

As tensions rise, all eyes are on the next move of the Rivers State House of Assembly. While Fubara has expressed his willingness to re-present the budget whenever lawmakers are ready, the impeachment threat looms large. With both sides unwilling to back down, the crisis is far from over.

The Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) has criticized the legislature’s actions, calling them “provocative” and warning against moves that could undermine governance and service delivery in the state.

The political standoff in Rivers State underscores the deep-seated power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike. With impeachment threats, resistance from opposition lawmakers, and warnings from Niger Delta groups, the battle for control of the state is set to continue. Whether this crisis will end in reconciliation or impeachment remains to be seen.