Impeachment notice against Fubara lacks constitutional basis – Centre

An advocacy organisation, the Good Governance Advocacy Centre (GGAC), says a review of the impeachment notice issued against Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers State, and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, did not find grounds that meet the constitutional threshold for removal from office. In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its country representative, Dr […]

An advocacy organisation, the Good Governance Advocacy Centre (GGAC), says a review of the impeachment notice issued against Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers State, and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, did not find grounds that meet the constitutional threshold for removal from office.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its country representative, Dr Zaccheus Ocha, the group said it conducted a 72-hour review of the impeachment notice and related allegations submitted by the Rivers State House of Assembly.

According to GGAC, its review focused on the text of the impeachment notice, relevant provisions of the constitution, financial records cited by lawmakers, and publicly available actions of the executive arm of government since the administration was inaugurated.

“The Good Governance Advocacy Centre has concluded, after a 72-hour independent review, that no act of gross misconduct has been established against Governor Siminalayi Fubara or his deputy,” the statement said.

The group said the allegations outlined in the impeachment notice were either unsupported by verifiable facts or related to decisions that fall within the lawful responsibilities of the executive branch.

It added that its analysis did not identify any violation that meets the standard of “gross misconduct” as envisaged under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution.

GGAC also expressed concern about the pace of the impeachment process, noting that the timeline raised questions about due process and fair hearing. The organisation said it observed what it described as procedural issues, including limited time for response.

The group called for restraint, urging lawmakers to consider dialogue and engagement with relevant stakeholders in addressing the issues raised.

It also encouraged political leaders, elders and civil society organisations to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and continuity of governance in the state.

As of the time of filing this report, the Rivers State House of Assembly had not publicly responded to the GGAC statement.

The impeachment proceedings have generated public debate in Rivers State, with differing views emerging from political actors and civil society groups.

GGAC said it would make its full report available to lawmakers, stakeholders and the public, adding that adherence to constitutional provisions and due process remained essential for democratic governance.