Political tension simmered in Rivers State on Friday following the commencement of impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, even as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, maintained silence on the unfolding crisis.
While residents of Port Harcourt went about their normal activities, anxiety lingered across the state as pressure mounted on lawmakers to halt the impeachment move. Governor Fubara, who is currently out of the country, has yet to be formally served the impeachment notice but is said to enjoy the backing of key power brokers and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Pan-Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) waded into the matter, condemning the impeachment process and calling for restraint. In a statement, the regional body urged all parties to embrace dialogue, tolerance and political maturity, warning that the crisis could escalate into a breakdown of law and order.
“This is a deeply disturbing situation that demands urgent attention in order to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order,” PANDEF said, announcing the formation of a seven-member reconciliation committee chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).
Rivers elder and PANDEF chieftain, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu to intervene, describing the impeachment attempt as the third against Fubara since he assumed office.
“If President Tinubu desires victory in Rivers State in 2027 and the Niger Delta as a whole, he should call Wike to order,” Sara-Igbe said, adding that the governor should be allowed to focus on governance.
Civil rights groups also voiced concern. The International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights (ISSJHR) warned lawmakers against abusing legislative powers.
“Impeachment is not a political weapon, rather a constitutional process that is strictly regulated by laws,” said ISSJHR Chancellor, Omenazu Jackson, stressing that any deviation from due process would render the action unconstitutional.
Similarly, the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) cautioned that Rivers State must not be sacrificed on the altar of political rivalry, urging dialogue over confrontation.
Meanwhile, the silence of the APC national leadership has heightened speculation over the party’s stance. Neither the party’s National Working Committee nor its recognised Rivers State executive led by Tony Okocha has issued an official response.
However, the dissolved Emeka Beke-led APC executive called on the party’s national leadership to urgently intervene and broker peace. The faction insists it remains the legally recognised leadership pending court rulings.
Amid the tension, Wike avoided public comment during a visit to Andoni Local Government Area, appearing subdued and addressing supporters briefly without referencing the impeachment.
Sources say key figures within the Presidency and APC leadership are inclined toward preserving stability in Rivers State, with some reportedly resolved to prevent the governor’s removal once again.
As reconciliation efforts intensify, stakeholders warn that any impeachment carried out in haste or secrecy could deepen divisions and undermine democratic governance in the oil-rich state.
