The Rivers State House of Assembly has formally initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, outlining eight allegations of gross misconduct against him.
The lawmakers, acting under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution, issued a notice announcing the commencement of the process and granted the governor and his deputy seven days to respond to the accusations.
According to the Assembly, the allegations border on financial impropriety, constitutional violations, and interference with legislative functions.
Among the claims is the alleged reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds without legislative approval, as well as the misappropriation of state resources.
The governor is also accused of obstructing the Rivers State House of Assembly from carrying out its constitutional duties, including making appointments without due legislative screening.
Further allegations include the withholding of salaries and entitlements of lawmakers, the seizure of the salary of the Clerk of the House, and the failure to implement constitutional provisions on financial autonomy for the legislature.
The Assembly also accused Governor Fubara of withholding funds meant for the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission, thereby crippling its operations.
The impeachment notice marks a significant escalation in the political crisis rocking the state, as the Assembly prepares to follow constitutional procedures should the governor fail to satisfactorily address the allegations within the stipulated timeframe.