Rivers Chief Judge Declines Assembly’s Request on Impeachment of Fubara, Deputy

Rivers Chief Judge Declines Assembly’s Request on Impeachment of Fubara, Deputy

The Chief Judge of Rivers State has declined a request by the State House of Assembly seeking her involvement in impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy.

In a letter addressed to the Assembly, the Chief Judge stated that the request did not meet the constitutional requirements necessary to trigger the impeachment process as provided under the 1999 Constitution (as amended). She stressed that due process must be strictly followed and that any deviation could undermine the rule of law.

The Rivers State House of Assembly had written to the Chief Judge, requesting the constitution of a panel to investigate allegations against the governor and his deputy as part of moves towards their possible impeachment. However, the Chief Judge maintained that the conditions precedent for such action were not sufficiently satisfied.

Her decision comes amid ongoing political tension in the state, with divisions within the Assembly and the executive arm of government deepening the crisis. Supporters of Governor Fubara have welcomed the Chief Judge’s stance, describing it as a defense of constitutional order, while critics argue that the Assembly has the right to exercise its oversight powers.

Political observers note that the refusal could temporarily stall impeachment efforts and may force lawmakers to revisit their procedures if they intend to pursue the matter further. The development has further heightened political uncertainty in Rivers State, as residents and stakeholders await the next steps in the unfolding power struggle.