Two members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have appealed to their colleagues to suspend the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, warning that the political crisis could further destabilise the state.
The lawmakers, Sylvanus Nwankwo and Peter Abbey, made the appeal on Monday during a press conference in Port Harcourt, urging the Assembly to adopt dialogue and reconciliation rather than push through with the impeachment process.
Nwankwo, who represents Omuma State Constituency and serves as the Minority Leader of the House, called on legislators to “temper justice with mercy” and explore alternative ways of resolving the dispute between the executive and the legislature.
“We are here to appeal to the conscience of our colleagues to reconsider this step and see how the matter can be resolved amicably, instead of impeachment,” Nwankwo said.
He disclosed that the lawmakers’ intervention followed sustained appeals from elders and political leaders within and outside Rivers State, who have expressed concern over the deepening political tension.
“Even though the governor and his deputy may have infringed on some constitutional provisions, we believe this issue can still be resolved without resorting to impeachment,” he added.
Also speaking, Abbey, who represents Degema State Constituency, echoed the call for restraint, describing the impeachment move as a situation that requires a humane and conciliatory approach.
“Yes, the governor may have infringed on parts of the constitution, but we are human beings. As members of the 10th Assembly, we are pleading with our colleagues to reconsider their position,” Abbey said.
He further urged Governor Fubara to take deliberate steps to de-escalate the crisis by avoiding actions that could worsen the situation.
“The governor also has a role to play. He must ensure that there are no further constitutional breaches. That is the only way we can achieve an amicable settlement,” Abbey stated.
The Rivers State House of Assembly had, on Thursday, formally commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara and his deputy.
The process was initiated after the Leader of the House, Major Jack, read out allegations of gross misconduct against the governor, backed by a notice reportedly signed by 26 lawmakers.
The impeachment move has intensified political tensions in the oil-rich state, deepening the rift between the executive and the legislature amid fears of prolonged instability.
Political observers have warned that the crisis, if not urgently resolved, could negatively affect governance and development in Rivers State.
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