Rivers State Assembly sparks drama with impeachment move

The Rivers State Assembly has set the stage for a political showdown by launching impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu. On March 14, 2025, a formal notice accusing the deputy governor of gross misconduct was served, marking a bold escalation in the state’s ongoing power struggle.

This move, rooted in Section 188 of Nigeria’s Constitution, has sent ripples through the oil-rich region, raising questions about the future of Fubara’s leadership.

A Deepening Crisis in Rivers State

The Rivers State Assembly isn’t holding back. The notice, signed by Assembly members and addressed to the Speaker, points to serious allegations against Deputy Governor Odu. While the document doesn’t spill all the details, it’s clear this is more than just a warning shot—it’s a calculated step toward shaking up Fubara’s administration.

The governor, once a close ally of former Governor Nyesom Wike, has found himself at odds with his mentor, now the Federal Capital Territory Minister. This fallout has turned the Assembly into a battleground, with tensions boiling over into this latest impeachment push.

The roots of this drama stretch back to May 2023, when Fubara took office. His relationship with Wike soured, splitting the state’s political scene into rival camps. Late last year, a similar impeachment scare targeting Fubara fizzled out after President Bola Tinubu stepped in to calm things down.

But that peace didn’t last. Now, the pro-Wike faction in the Rivers State Assembly seems ready to flex its muscle, aiming not just at Odu but at Fubara himself.

What’s Behind the Impeachment Notice?

Under Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, a governor or deputy can be removed for “gross misconduct”—think serious breaches of law or the constitution. The Rivers State Assembly is using this rule to go after Odu, and possibly Fubara next.

The process isn’t simple, though. It starts with a notice, followed by a two-thirds vote from Assembly members to kick things off. If that passes, a panel will dig into the claims. Should they find Odu guilty, a final vote could boot her out of office.

Hitting the deputy governor first might be a clever play to weaken Fubara’s grip. Odu is a key partner in his administration, and taking her down could leave the governor vulnerable. Political watchers see this as part of a bigger plan to destabilize Fubara’s leadership and settle old scores in the Wike-Fubara feud.

Why This Matters Now

Rivers State has long been a hotspot for political fireworks, but this impeachment saga takes it to another level. The Rivers State Assembly is at the heart of the storm, wielding its power in a way that could reshape the state’s future.

With oil money and influence on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The coming days will be crucial—will the Assembly push forward, or will another last-minute deal save the day?

For now, all eyes are on Port Harcourt. The investigation into Odu’s alleged misconduct is about to begin, and whatever the panel uncovers could decide the fate of both her and Fubara. One thing’s for sure: this isn’t just politics as usual—it’s a high-stakes game that’s got everyone talking.

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