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The Rivers State House of Assembly has alleged that individuals linked to the executive arm of government are plotting to obtain court orders aimed at preventing the legislature from carrying out its constitutional duties.
The allegation comes as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, concluded his tour of the state’s 23 local government areas.
Assembly Raises Alarm Over Alleged Court Injunction Plot
In a statement issued on Sunday in Port Harcourt, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Dr Enemi George, said the Assembly uncovered plans to secure an ex parte court order from a Rivers State High Court sitting outside Port Harcourt.
According to the lawmakers, the alleged move is intended to halt ongoing impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.
Impeachment Proceedings Begin
Last Thursday, the Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, formally initiated impeachment proceedings against both office holders.
The Majority Leader, Major Jack, presented a notice signed by 26 lawmakers, citing multiple allegations of gross misconduct against the governor. These include:
- Extra-budgetary expenditure of over ₦800 billion without legislative approval
- Withholding funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission
- Demolition of the Assembly complex
- Defiance of Supreme Court rulings on legislative autonomy
A separate notice accused the deputy governor of conniving in unconstitutional expenditures.
Amaewhule announced that both notices would be served within seven days, in line with constitutional provisions.
Assembly Cites Constitutional Violations
The Assembly described the alleged attempt to halt impeachment proceedings as “dead on arrival,” insisting it violated the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
George referenced Section 272(3), which vests jurisdiction over questions concerning the tenure of governors and legislators in the Federal High Court, and Section 188(10), which bars courts from entertaining matters relating to impeachment proceedings.
He also cited recent Court of Appeal decisions that nullified similar ex parte orders issued by state high courts.
“Instead of running from pillar to post, those served with notices of allegations of gross misconduct should respond accordingly,” George said.
Renewed Escalation of Rivers Political Crisis
The development marks another escalation in the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, stemming from the fallout between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike.
Previous impeachment attempts in 2023 and 2025 were halted following presidential interventions, before a state of emergency was declared by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025.
Accusations Trail Wike as He Concludes LG Tour
Following the impeachment move, accusations surfaced that Wike was the mastermind behind it, recalling remarks he made during his recent local government tour, where he described Fubara as a “mistake” he intended to correct in 2027 — comments later echoed by the Speaker.
Amaewhule had accused the governor and his deputy of failing to present the 2026 budget to the Assembly.
Wike: Politics Is About Power and Interest
Speaking during a thank-you visit to Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Wike insisted that political power is earned through strength and strategic interests, not sentiment.
“Politics is about interest — the interest of your people. Power is not dashed; we struggle for it,” Wike said.
He stressed that Obio/Akpor remained a decisive force in Rivers politics, boasting of its voting strength and influence in determining electoral outcomes.
“Nobody has become governor in this state without Obio/Akpor making a pronouncement,” he added.
Minister Dismisses Calls for His Removal
Wike dismissed calls for his removal as FCT minister, insisting that such decisions rest solely with President Tinubu.
“If my appointor believes that I can no longer offer anything, he has the right, not you,” he said.
Obio/Akpor Leaders, Assembly Reaffirm Support
Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Gift Worlu, praised Wike’s political career and influence, describing him as a major asset to Rivers State and Nigeria.
Speaker Amaewhule also reaffirmed the Assembly’s support for Wike and President Tinubu, praising the minister’s contributions to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Presidency Set to Intervene Again?
Speculation over another presidential intervention intensified after the impeachment notices were issued. Sources close to the Presidency said President Tinubu had invited both Wike and Fubara for talks.
On Sunday evening, Wike returned to Abuja from Port Harcourt, dispelling rumours of a trip to Dubai. A source said he traveled to receive the President upon his return from abroad, though it remained unclear whether a Rivers-related meeting would take place.
