By Peter Omopo
The Rivers State House of Assembly has formally initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, following the presentation of notices alleging gross misconduct.
The notices were laid before the House in line with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and other relevant laws. During plenary, the Leader of the House, Major Jack, read the notice of allegations against Governor Fubara, while the Deputy Leader, Linda Stewart, presented the notice against the Deputy Governor.
According to the lawmakers, the allegations against both officials include the failure to present the state budget to the House, the expenditure of state funds without legislative approval, and the alleged withholding of salaries and statutory funds due to the Rivers State House of Assembly, the Clerk of the Assembly and the Assembly Service Commission.
Other allegations cited in the notices include the screening and confirmation of government appointees by entities other than the recognised House of Assembly, as well as the demolition of the Assembly complex.
The 26 lawmakers sponsoring the notices contended that the governor and his deputy have demonstrated an inability to discharge their constitutional responsibilities as required by law.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House said the Assembly would comply strictly with constitutional provisions, assuring that the notices of allegations would be served on the governor and his deputy within seven days, as stipulated by law.
The development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political tension in Rivers State.
