BREAKING: Wike-Loyal Rivers Lawmakers Withdraw Impeachment Notice Against Fubara, Call for Peace

Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have reportedly withdrawn the impeachment notice earlier issued against Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The decision, announced on Monday in Port Harcourt, signals a potential easing of political tension in the state and has sparked widespread attention from observers and civil society groups.

 

Ejes Gist News reports that the lawmakers, who form part of a faction aligned with Wike, made the withdrawal during a press briefing where they also issued an appeal for peace, constitutional order, and restraint. According to the legislators, the impeachment notice, which had intensified political divisions within the state, is no longer pursued in the interest of stability and governance.

Background of the Impeachment Notice

The impeachment notice emerged from a prolonged power struggle within the Rivers State House of Assembly. Factions loyal to Governor Fubara and former Governor Wike have been at odds since Fubara assumed office, with repeated accusations regarding legislative interference, governance style, and alleged breaches of constitutional provisions.

Observers noted that the notice, which was initially presented as a formal tool to hold the governor accountable, heightened political anxiety across the state. Analysts argued that the action risked destabilising both the legislature and executive functions, particularly in a state with significant economic and infrastructural responsibilities.

Withdrawal Announcement and Appeal for Peace

The decision to withdraw the impeachment notice was formally communicated by the Minority Leader of the House, Sylvanus Enyinna Nwankwo, alongside fellow lawmaker Peter Abbey. During the press briefing, the legislators highlighted that their decision followed consultations with traditional rulers, elders, religious leaders, and other key stakeholders across the state.

“We have listened to the voices of reason,” Nwankwo stated. “Elders and leaders from different parts of Rivers State have reached out to us, appealing that we should give peace a chance. In the interest of unity, democracy, and the future of our dear state, we have decided to withdraw the impeachment notice.”

Abbey added, “We are appealing to His Excellency, the Governor, to embrace peace, uphold the Constitution, and respect the principle of separation of powers. This is not about personal interest; it is about the survival of democratic governance in Rivers State.”

The lawmakers emphasised that their action should not be perceived as a concession of legislative authority but rather as a deliberate measure to prevent further political instability. They framed the withdrawal as a strategic step aimed at fostering reconciliation and dialogue between the Assembly and the Governor’s office.

Constitutional and Governance Considerations

The reported withdrawal reflects the delicate balance of constitutional powers in Rivers State. Legal experts highlight that the legislature possesses the authority to initiate impeachment proceedings; however, such actions carry implications for political stability, governance continuity, and public confidence in democratic institutions.

Political analyst Dr. Ifeanyi Okonkwo observed that “the withdrawal of the impeachment notice is significant because it signals a willingness to prioritise constitutional order over partisan confrontation. While underlying disagreements remain, this move demonstrates political pragmatism.”

The appeal for peace is also seen as a safeguard against potential judicial intervention or federal involvement, which could arise if an impeachment process escalated without consensus. Legal observers note that such escalation could have triggered complex litigation and heightened political tension.

Response from Governor Fubara

As of the time of filing this report, Governor Fubara has not issued a formal statement in response to the withdrawal. Sources within Government House indicate that the development is being viewed positively as an opportunity to reset relations with the Assembly and promote cooperation across executive-legislative functions.

Officials suggest that the Governor may leverage this window to engage in dialogue with Assembly members, address outstanding concerns, and implement measures to strengthen institutional collaboration. Political commentators indicate that such engagement could significantly reduce friction and improve governance outcomes in the state.

Stakeholder Reactions

News of the withdrawal has elicited a range of responses from civil society organisations, community leaders, and political observers. Many have described the decision as a constructive step toward stabilising Rivers State politics.

A Port Harcourt-based civil society leader noted, “This withdrawal represents a moment for reflection. Both the executive and legislature have an opportunity to prioritise governance, institutional reforms, and the welfare of citizens over political confrontation.”

Religious and traditional authorities involved in consultations with the Assembly members were also reported to have welcomed the move, stressing that the preservation of peace and public trust is paramount. Several groups called for an inclusive meeting involving lawmakers, the governor, party leadership, and traditional rulers to address the root causes of the crisis and prevent future escalation.

Implications for Rivers State Politics

The withdrawal of the impeachment notice could mark a turning point in the state’s political landscape. Analysts suggest several potential implications:

• Reduction in Legislative-Executive Tensions: The withdrawal allows both sides to refocus on cooperative governance and public service delivery.
• Reinforcement of Constitutional Norms: By highlighting dialogue and consultation, the lawmakers underscore the importance of separation of powers and adherence to due process.
• Impact on Political Alliances: The move demonstrates the continuing influence of Wike-aligned lawmakers and their capacity to shape political outcomes in the state.
• Public Perception and Investor Confidence: The decision may reassure residents and investors concerned about political instability affecting development, security, and economic activity.

Political analysts also caution that while the withdrawal eases immediate tension, lasting harmony will require structured reforms, reconciliation mechanisms, and a commitment to institutional accountability from all parties.

Observers Call for Continued Dialogue

While the withdrawal is being viewed as a positive development, many observers insist that this is not a resolution of all political disagreements in Rivers State. Sustained dialogue between the Assembly and the Governor’s office is recommended to address underlying grievances and prevent the recurrence of conflict.

A political commentator in Port Harcourt highlighted, “This is a chance to reset relations, but it must be followed by tangible reforms and constructive engagement. Otherwise, the state risks reverting to cycles of confrontation that distract from critical governance priorities such as infrastructure, security, education, and employment.”

The lawmakers’ appeal to their colleagues to reconsider any future impeachment moves and focus on dialogue is also being interpreted as a broader signal to the entire political class in Rivers State about the importance of stability and democratic norms.

Historical Context of Legislative-Executive Tensions

Rivers State has a history of political friction between executive and legislative branches, often shaped by factional allegiances. Since Fubara’s assumption of office, the state has experienced intermittent legislative gridlock, public disputes, and competing narratives regarding accountability, constitutional adherence, and policy priorities.

The withdrawal of the impeachment notice, therefore, carries significance not only for the immediate actors but also for the institutional precedent it sets. Analysts indicate that the emphasis on peace, consultation, and constitutional respect may influence future interactions between governors and Assemblies in other Nigerian states.

What you should know

While the political dynamics in Rivers State remain complex, the reported withdrawal of the impeachment notice by Wike-aligned lawmakers offers a temporary easing of tensions and an opportunity for dialogue and reconciliation.

Ejes Gist News reports that civil society groups, community leaders, and political observers are closely monitoring subsequent developments, including any formal response from Governor Fubara and the implementation of measures to strengthen executive-legislative cooperation.

For residents of Rivers State, the withdrawal signals a potential reprioritisation of governance over partisan conflict, highlighting the importance of constitutional order, peace, and the rule of law in maintaining democratic stability. Whether this gesture translates into lasting political harmony remains to be seen, but it represents a significant step in cooling the state’s previously heightened political climate.