The political landscape in Rivers State has been further shaken as the Rivers State House of Assembly has announced its intention to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, following his firm rejection of the 48-hour ultimatum issued to him regarding the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
The House, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, had given Governor Fubara a strict deadline to re-present the appropriation bill after a ruling by the Supreme Court which required certain legislative procedures to be followed. However, in a strong response, the state government declared it would not comply with the ultimatum, arguing that no formal notice had been issued to the Governor, thus rendering the demand legally invalid.
This defiance has led the State House of Assembly to take drastic steps, as it now looks set to initiate the impeachment process against the Governor, accusing him of disregarding the legislature’s authority and constitutional procedures. The looming impeachment proceedings mark a significant escalation in the ongoing standoff between the executive and legislative arms of the Rivers State Government.
The 2025 Appropriation Bill, a crucial document that outlines the state’s budget and fiscal plan, has become the focal point of the dispute, with both sides digging in their heels over procedural and legal matters. Governor Fubara’s administration, while emphasizing the importance of respecting the legislative branch, insists that the ultimatum lacks proper legal backing, as the required formal communication had not been received.
With political tension at an all-time high, the looming impeachment threat further complicates an already volatile political situation in the state. Observers are closely watching as the power struggle between the Governor and the State House of Assembly intensifies, raising critical questions about the future of governance in Rivers State.
