The International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights, ISSJHR, has strongly condemned the fresh impeachment proceedings initiated by the Rivers State House of Assembly against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, describing the move as a blatant abuse of legislative powers and a threat to democratic principles.
The condemnation comes amid escalating political tension in the state, following the Assembly’s commencement of the process on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The lawmakers, citing alleged gross misconduct including failure to present the 2026 Appropriation Bill, served a notice signed by 26 members, in line with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Speaking to our correspondent in Port Harcourt, Chancellor of ISSJHR, Dr. Omenazu Jackson, described the impeachment move as “constitutionally reckless” and a clear violation of the doctrine of separation of powers enshrined in Sections 4, 5, and 6 of the Constitution.
“The Nigerian Constitution provides for separation of powers among the arms of government, but it does not permit the use of impeachment as a tool of coercion against the executive arm,” Dr. Jackson stated.
He further argued that any impeachment effort not aligned with the will of the electorate constitutes a direct assault on the sovereignty and legitimacy of the government.
Also see: Pro-Fubara Group Slams Impeachment Plot, Calls It Unconstitutional Adventurism
“Any deviation renders such impeachment null, void, and unconstitutional,” he added, warning that the governor must not be coerced into acting against the interests of the people who elected him.
Dr. Jackson cautioned those fueling the crisis in Rivers State to desist immediately, noting that indigenes negatively affected by the ongoing political uncertainties would resist every undemocratic tactic aimed at undermining the state’s development.
He urged all political actors to work together to prevent a breakdown of law and order, which he said would be inimical to progress and stability in the oil-rich state.
The latest impeachment attempt marks the third against Governor Fubara since 2023, amid his protracted rift with former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
