Rovers crisis: Diaspora group backs Fubara, urges restraint 

Nigerian professionals in the diaspora have expressed support for Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, cautioning that renewed impeachment discussions involving the state’s leadership could heighten political tensions and strain democratic institutions. In a statement, the Nigerian Diaspora Professionals for Democratic Stability (NDPDS) said recent impeachment-related actions by the Rivers […]

Nigerian professionals in the diaspora have expressed support for Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, cautioning that renewed impeachment discussions involving the state’s leadership could heighten political tensions and strain democratic institutions.

In a statement, the Nigerian Diaspora Professionals for Democratic Stability (NDPDS) said recent impeachment-related actions by the Rivers State House of Assembly raise concerns about governance stability and constitutional restraint.

The statement, signed by the group’s president, Dr. Chukwudi Nnamani, and its secretary, Mr. Adewale Ogunsiwaju, described the situation as part of a broader political disagreement that has persisted since the governor assumed office, following the end of his alliance with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

According to the group, recurring impeachment initiatives risk diverting attention from governance and development priorities.

“The impeachment threats against Governor Fubara have become cyclical and predictable. In our view, this pattern raises questions about whether impeachment is being considered as an accountability mechanism or as a recurring political response to unresolved disagreements,” the statement said.

NDPDS noted that divisions within the state legislature have complicated efforts to restore political calm, arguing that prolonged tension could affect public confidence.

“It is difficult to separate legislative actions from the broader political environment in the state. Persistent uncertainty places strain on democratic processes and weakens trust in institutions that are meant to serve the electorate,” the group stated.

The diaspora professionals also warned that continued political instability could have wider economic implications for the state.

“Rivers State plays a critical role in Nigeria’s economy. Any situation that creates prolonged uncertainty sends an unfavourable signal to investors, development partners and citizens who depend on stability for growth and progress,” the statement added.

Defending the governor’s actions in office, the group maintained that political disagreements or policy differences should not automatically translate into impeachment proceedings.

“Disagreement is not a crime, and independence in decision-making should not be mistaken for misconduct. The constitutional threshold for impeachment is high for a reason, and it should be applied with caution and restraint,” the statement noted.

The group said members of the diaspora are closely monitoring developments, stressing that frequent impeachment debates could weaken democratic norms.

“When impeachment becomes routine rather than exceptional, confidence in democracy is eroded. What is unfolding in Rivers has implications beyond the state, because it shapes how electoral mandates are treated,” the statement said.

NDPDS called on political leaders, lawmakers, the judiciary and other stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and constitutional balance, urging restraint in handling political disagreements.

“The mandate of the people should remain paramount. Rivers State deserves focused governance and constructive engagement, not prolonged political confrontation,” the statement concluded.