APC Leaders, Governors Move to Ease Tension Over Rivers Impeachment Threat

APC leaders intervene in Rivers State impeachment crisis involving Governor Fubara

Senior figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC), including party leaders and some state governors, have begun consultations aimed at easing political tension in Rivers State following the issuance of a seven-day impeachment notice against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu.

The intervention efforts come after the Rivers State House of Assembly formally initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor and his deputy, citing allegations of gross misconduct. The move has heightened political uncertainty in the oil-producing state, prompting concerns over stability and governance.

Political sources confirm that high-level engagements are ongoing, with efforts focused on achieving a political resolution to prevent escalation. Discussions reportedly involve key stakeholders at both state and federal levels, including figures aligned with the executive and legislative arms of government.

The impeachment process was launched during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule. Lawmakers issued a seven-day notice requiring the governor to respond to allegations linked mainly to fiscal and legislative matters, including claims relating to the non-presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

A total of 27 lawmakers endorsed the notice, invoking Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. The allegations against Governor Fubara include issues surrounding budgetary procedures, spending outside approved appropriations, withholding of funds meant for legislative bodies, and non-compliance with court rulings on the financial autonomy of the House of Assembly.

Similar allegations were also presented against Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu. These include claims of unauthorised spending, obstruction of legislative functions, and bypassing the Assembly in budget-related processes.

Following the commencement of the impeachment process, the House resolved to suspend consideration of the 2026 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Appropriation Bill pending the conclusion of investigations into the allegations.

The Rivers State Government has not formally responded to the impeachment notice. Officials within the executive have stated that any reaction will come only after the governor is officially served with the notice, in line with constitutional procedures.

Meanwhile, divisions have emerged within the APC in Rivers State. A faction of the party has publicly opposed the impeachment process, arguing that it could destabilise the state and that budgetary provisions already exist following the approval of a federal-backed budget during a previous emergency period.

Civil society organisations, youth groups, and women’s associations have also expressed concern over the impeachment move, warning that it could reignite political unrest in the state. Several groups have called for dialogue, restraint, and adherence to constitutional processes.

The ongoing crisis is the latest development in a prolonged political struggle in Rivers State involving the executive, legislature, and key political actors. The situation continues to evolve as consultations aimed at de-escalation and political reconciliation intensify.

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