The political crisis in Rivers State has taken a new turn as the Rivers State House of Assembly has officially accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, of misconduct. The lawmakers issued a formal notice on March 16, stating that their actions align with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution.
The notice, signed by several members of the Assembly, was addressed to the governor and his deputy. It partly read: “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.”
While the lawmakers have not yet provided full details of the allegations, their move signals deepening political tension in the state. The development follows months of a power struggle between Governor Fubara and the Assembly, which has been at the center of various political controversies in recent times.
Observers believe this latest action could be part of the ongoing battle for political control in Rivers State. The Assembly, which has been largely loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike, has had a strained relationship with Fubara since he assumed office. The crisis escalated last year when attempts were made to remove the governor, leading to intervention from President Bola Tinubu to restore peace.
Despite efforts at reconciliation, tensions remain high, with the Assembly pushing forward with actions that could further destabilize the government. Political analysts note that the accusations of misconduct might be another step toward impeachment proceedings.
