By Erewunmi Peace

The Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday formally initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, escalating the ongoing political tension in the state.

The move was announced during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker of the House, Martins Amaewhule.

The Majority Leader, Major Jack, read out a notice of allegations bordering on gross misconduct leveled against the governor, in line with provisions of Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

According to the notice, the allegations include actions said to undermine the authority of the House and breach constitutional and financial procedures.

The lawmakers stated that the notice was supported by the required number of Assembly members to commence the impeachment process.

The Speaker directed that the notice be formally served on the governor and his deputy, after which they are expected to respond within the constitutionally stipulated timeframe. If the process continues, a panel may be constituted to investigate the allegations.

The development has sparked mixed reactions across Rivers State, with political stakeholders and residents expressing concern over the potential impact on governance and stability. Some have called for dialogue and restraint, warning that prolonged political crises could affect development and public trust.

As of the time of filing this report, the Rivers State Government has not issued an official response to the impeachment notice.

The impeachment process remains ongoing, and further actions will depend on constitutional procedures and responses from the affected parties.