By Muhammad Mamman
Two additional members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have withdrawn their support for the impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, dealing a further blow to the controversial move.
The latest lawmakers to step back are Hon. Mrs Barile Nwakoh, the Deputy Minority Leader of the Assembly, and Hon. Emilia Amadi. Their decision brings the total number of legislators who have withdrawn from the impeachment effort to four, out of the 26 members initially reported to be backing the process.
The development highlights growing divisions within the Rivers State legislature as political tensions continue to mount in the oil-rich state.
The impeachment bid, which has sparked widespread debate and uncertainty, is seen as part of a broader power struggle within the state’s political establishment. While the grounds for the impeachment have not been fully detailed publicly, the process has drawn criticism from civil society groups and political observers who warn of potential instability.
Governor Fubara, who assumed office in May 2023, has faced persistent political headwinds since taking office. The withdrawal of support by some lawmakers is likely to strengthen his position as negotiations and behind-the-scenes efforts to de-escalate the crisis continue.
There has been no immediate reaction from the leadership of the Rivers State House of Assembly or from the impeachment proponents following the latest defections.
