Impeachment: Two More Rivers Lawmakers Pull Out, Urge Political Settlement

Less than a week after 26 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly issued a notice of impeachment against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, two additional lawmakers have withdrawn their support for the process, appealing for a political solution to the unfolding crisis.

The lawmakers, Hon. Barile Nwakoh of Khana Constituency I and Hon. Emilia Amadi of Obio/Akpor Constituency II, called on their colleagues to suspend the impeachment move and embrace dialogue, stressing that diplomacy remains the best path to resolving the standoff between the executive and legislative arms of government.

Addressing journalists at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, Nwakoh explained that their decision followed appeals from Rivers leaders and residents.

“We speak for ourselves and not for the House of Assembly. While we were part of the notice of allegation of gross misconduct against the governor and deputy governor, we have been urged by Rivers leaders and people to seek a political solution rather than pursue impeachment. This is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of a forgiving heart and a commitment to constructive governance,” he said.

Amadi, on her part, said reconciliation was achievable if assurances by the governor and his deputy to comply with constitutional provisions and respect existing agreements—under presidential supervision—were honoured.

With their withdrawal, the number of lawmakers stepping back from the impeachment notice has risen to four. Earlier, Hon. Sylvanus Nwankwo, Minority Leader representing Omuma Constituency, and Hon. Peter Abbey of Degema Constituency had also publicly distanced themselves from the process.

The political tension in Rivers State continues to shift, with indications that more lawmakers may abandon the impeachment plot, which observers say is increasingly losing momentum.

The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, is expected to reconvene on Wednesday, January 15, 2026, to further deliberate on the allegations of gross misconduct levelled against Governor Fubara and his deputy.

Meanwhile, former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili, has reiterated his support for Fubara, assuring him of widespread backing.

“Your people are with you, and they have asked me to tell you that you are the political leader of Rivers State. Wherever you go, we will go with you. Wherever you stand, we will stand with you. You are standing on firm ground. Stand there and hold on to God,” Odili said.

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