The impeachment drive against Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, appeared to lose momentum on Thursday after the State House of Assembly failed to reconvene following the expiration of its seven-day ultimatum.
Gatekeepers News reports that the development has introduced fresh uncertainty into the prolonged political standoff between the legislature, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, and the executive arm of government, as lawmakers did not sit as earlier scheduled.
The Assembly had, during plenary on January 8, 2026, issued a notice of alleged gross misconduct against the governor and his deputy. The accusations included the demolition of the Assembly complex and the approval of expenditures without legislative authorisation.
At the time, the lawmakers invoked Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution and adjourned plenary to January 15, 2026, setting the stage for the next phase of the impeachment process.
However, checks by The Guardian at the Assembly’s usual sitting venue on Thursday showed no legislative activity. The complex was shut, with security personnel stationed at the entrance.
It was gathered that the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Enemi George, had earlier informed journalists covering the Assembly that the House would not sit on Thursday.
The absence of legislative action came amid heightened public anticipation, as residents awaited developments following the expiration of the ultimatum issued to the governor and his deputy.
Earlier in the week, four lawmakers publicly appealed to their colleagues to halt the impeachment proceedings and seek a peaceful resolution of the political crisis.
The legislators — Minority Leader Sylvanus Nwankwo (Omuma Constituency), Peter Abbey (Degema Constituency), Barile Nwakoh (Khana Constituency I) and Emilia Amadi (Obio/Akpor Constituency II) — said the impeachment process required careful reflection and extensive consultation.
They explained that their decision to go public followed interventions by respected elders and leaders within and outside Rivers State, who called for restraint, dialogue and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, sources told The Guardian that President Bola Tinubu and some Abuja-based political leaders were displeased with the impeachment moves against Governor Fubara, a factor believed to have influenced the latest turn of events.
Despite the political tension, Governor Fubara has continued with his official duties and has avoided commenting on the crisis at both public and private engagements.
