By Muhammad Mamman
Lawmakers in Nigeria’s oil-rich Rivers State have formally asked the state’s Chief Judge to constitute a seven-member panel to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, a move that could set the stage for impeachment proceedings.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Judge, the Rivers State House of Assembly said the request was made in line with constitutional provisions governing the investigation of alleged misconduct by a sitting governor. The Assembly did not publicly detail the specific allegations but said they warrant an independent inquiry.
Under Nigeria’s constitution, once such a request is received, the Chief Judge is expected to appoint a panel of seven persons of “unquestionable integrity” to investigate the claims and report back to the legislature.
The development marks a significant escalation in the long-running political tensions in Rivers State, where relations between the executive and the legislature have been strained amid internal power struggles within the state’s political elite.
Governor Fubara, who assumed office in 2023, has yet to issue an official response to the Assembly’s letter. His allies have previously dismissed impeachment threats as politically motivated, while opposition lawmakers insist the process is being pursued within the bounds of the law.
If the panel is constituted and finds the governor guilty of gross misconduct, the Assembly could move to remove him from office. Until then, the process remains investigative, with no immediate change to the governor’s status.
Rivers State, a major hub of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, has a history of intense political battles, often drawing national attention due to its economic and strategic importance.
