Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that impeaching Governor Siminalayi Fubara would not constitute a criminal offense. Wike made the statement on Tuesday during a press briefing in Abuja, as the political crisis in Rivers State continues to escalate.
The comment comes amid growing tensions between Wike and Fubara, with the former governor accusing his successor of incompetence and mismanagement of state resources. Wike’s remarks have further fueled speculation about a possible impeachment move against Fubara by the Rivers State House of Assembly.
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Wike’s Statement
Wike, who remains a powerful figure in Rivers State politics, emphasized that impeachment is a constitutional process and not a criminal act. He argued that if the state legislature finds Fubara guilty of misconduct, they have the right to initiate impeachment proceedings.
“Impeachment is not a criminal offense; it is a constitutional process. If the House of Assembly finds the governor guilty of gross misconduct, they have the right to impeach him. It’s as simple as that,” Wike said.
He also accused Fubara of failing to deliver on his promises to the people of Rivers State, citing poor governance and a lack of transparency as key issues.
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Background of the Crisis
The political rift between Wike and Fubara has been brewing since the latter assumed office in 2023. The two leaders, who were once political allies, have been at odds over issues such as budget approvals, appointments, and the management of state resources.
The crisis reached a boiling point recently when the Rivers State House of Assembly, dominated by Wike’s loyalists, threatened to impeach Fubara if he fails to address their concerns.
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Reactions from Stakeholders
Wike’s comments have sparked mixed reactions from political stakeholders and residents of Rivers State. While some have supported his stance, others have accused him of meddling in the affairs of the state government.
“Wike’s statement is unnecessary and divisive. He should allow Governor Fubara to govern the state without interference,” said a Rivers State resident.
However, Wike’s supporters have defended his right to speak out, arguing that his experience and knowledge of the state’s politics make his input valuable.
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Calls for Peace and Stability
Amid the escalating crisis, civil society organizations and stakeholders have called for calm and urged both parties to prioritize the interests of the people.
“The political crisis in Rivers State is a threat to the peace and development of the state. We urge the governor and the House of Assembly to resolve their differences through dialogue,” said Comrade Joseph Ambakederimo, a civil rights activist.
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Nyesom Wike’s declaration that impeaching Governor Fubara is not a criminal offense has added fuel to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. As the situation unfolds, the focus will be on how the state legislature and the governor navigate their differences and ensure stability in the state.
For now, the political landscape in Rivers remains tense, with the possibility of impeachment looming over Governor Fubara’s administration.
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