A rift has emerged within the Rivers State House of Assembly as two lawmakers publicly appealed for restraint amid moves to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.
The lawmakers urged their colleagues to suspend impeachment proceedings and explore alternative means of resolving the political crisis.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday in Port Harcourt, the Minority Leader of the House and member representing Omuma State Constituency, Hon. Sylvanus Nwankwo, called on lawmakers to “temper justice with mercy” and reconsider the decision to remove the governor from office.
Nwankwo said the press briefing was convened to appeal to the conscience of fellow legislators, noting that several elders and political leaders within and outside Rivers State had intervened, pleading for leniency.
“We are here to appeal to our colleagues to see how this matter can be resolved outside impeachment proceedings,” he said. “We have received numerous calls and appeals from leaders and elders who are begging for restraint. Although there have been constitutional infractions, we are urging our colleagues to reconsider and resolve the issue amicably.”
Also speaking, Hon. Peter Abbey, who represents Degema State Constituency, aligned himself with Nwankwo’s position, describing the situation as one that demands a humane and measured approach.
According to Abbey, while the governor may have breached certain constitutional provisions, lawmakers should consider the broader implications of impeachment and seek peaceful alternatives.
“We are human beings, and as members of the 10th Assembly, we are appealing to our colleagues to reconsider their position,” Abbey said.
He added that Governor Fubara also bears responsibility to de-escalate tensions by ensuring there are no further constitutional violations, which could help pave the way for a peaceful resolution.
However, the appeal by the two lawmakers appears to contradict the stance of the House Committee on Information. The committee’s chairman, Hon. Alabo Enemi George, insisted that the impeachment process remained on course.
In an interview, George stated that nothing would halt the ongoing proceedings, confirming that both the governor and his deputy had already been formally served.
