A deepening rift has emerged within the Rivers State House of Assembly following calls by two lawmakers for restraint and dialogue over the ongoing impeachment process against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.
Speaking at a press conference in Port Harcourt on Monday, the Minority Leader of the House, Hon. Sylvanus Nwankwo, appealed to his colleagues to suspend impeachment proceedings and seek alternative ways of resolving the political crisis.
“We have called this press conference to appeal to our colleagues to temper justice with mercy and to see how we can resolve this matter apart from impeachment proceedings,” Nwankwo said.
“We are appealing to the conscience of our colleagues. We have received several pleas and calls from elders and leaders within and outside the state, all begging for leniency.”
Nwankwo, who represents Omuma State Constituency, acknowledged alleged constitutional breaches by the governor and his deputy but urged lawmakers to reconsider the drastic step of removal from office.
“Even though the governor and deputy governor may have infringed on the constitution, we are appealing that our colleagues reconsider their stand and allow for an amicable resolution,” he added.
Also lending his voice, Hon. Peter Abbey, member representing Degema State Constituency, described the situation as one that demands compassion and maturity.
“Yes, the governor has infringed on parts of the constitution, but we are human beings,” Abbey said.
“As members of the 10th Assembly, we are pleading with our colleagues to please reconsider this process.”
Abbey further charged Governor Fubara to take concrete steps to calm tensions by avoiding further constitutional infractions, noting that such actions could open the door to peace.
“The governor also has a responsibility to de-escalate this crisis by ensuring there are no more breaches. That is the path to a peaceful settlement,” he stated.
However, the appeals for restraint sharply contrast with the position of the House leadership. The Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon. Alabo Enemi George, insisted that the impeachment process remains firmly on course.
Responding to questions on whether the House might retreat from its position, George was unequivocal.
“Nothing will stop the impeachment process,” he said, adding that both the governor and his deputy had already been formally served.
As the crisis unfolds, the Rivers State House of Assembly appears sharply divided, with growing uncertainty over whether dialogue or impeachment will ultimately prevail.
