The Rivers State House of Assembly has outlined 19 allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, paving the way for his impeachment. The lawmakers, who are predominantly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have accused Fubara of violating the constitution, mismanaging state resources, and undermining the legislative arm of government.
The impeachment notice, served on the governor and his deputy, lists the following key allegations:
1. Constitutional Violations: Fubara is accused of disregarding the constitution in his appointments and policies.
2. Mismanagement of State Funds: The governor is alleged to have misappropriated state resources for personal and political gains.
3. Undermining the Legislature: Fubara is accused of ignoring resolutions passed by the state assembly.
4. Illegal Appointments: The governor is alleged to have made appointments without the assembly’s approval.
5. Abuse of Power: Fubara is accused of using his office to intimidate political opponents.
6. Failure to Conduct Local Government Elections: The governor is alleged to have delayed local government elections to maintain control over the councils.
7. Misuse of Security Agencies: Fubara is accused of using security agencies to harass and intimidate critics.
8. Neglect of State Projects: The governor is alleged to have abandoned critical infrastructure projects initiated by his predecessor.
9. Violation of Procurement Laws: Fubara is accused of awarding contracts without due process.
10. Disregard for Judicial Decisions: The governor is alleged to have ignored court orders and rulings.
11. Polarization of the State: Fubara is accused of deepening political divisions in Rivers State.
12. Failure to Pay Salaries and Pensions: The governor is alleged to have delayed payment of salaries and pensions to state workers.
13. Misuse of State Assets: Fubara is accused of using state assets for personal and political purposes.
14. Lack of Transparency: The governor is alleged to have operated his administration without transparency and accountability.
15. Undermining Traditional Institutions: Fubara is accused of interfering in the affairs of traditional rulers.
16. Failure to Address Security Challenges: The governor is alleged to have neglected the security concerns of the state.
17. Misuse of State Media: Fubara is accused of using state-owned media to propagate falsehoods and attack opponents.
18. Disregard for Public Opinion: The governor is alleged to have ignored the concerns and demands of the people.
19. Erosion of Democratic Norms: Fubara is accused of undermining democratic principles and institutions.
The impeachment notice has further escalated the political crisis in Rivers State, which has been polarized between factions loyal to Fubara and those aligned with Wike. The assembly has given the governor and his deputy seven days to respond to the allegations or face further action.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are calling for calm and urging all parties to prioritize the interests of Rivers State.