By Ihechi Enyinnaya
The political crisis in Rivers State has deepened as the State House of Assembly has rejected any political solution being muled by stakeholders as it has formally outlined eight allegations against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, forming the basis of an impeachment move against the governor.
The allegations, presented by lawmakers, centre on claims of constitutional breaches, financial misconduct, and actions said to have undermined the independence and functioning of the legislature and judiciary.
According to the Assembly, Governor Fubara is accused of engaging in reckless and unconstitutional expenditure of public funds, as well as the misappropriation of state resources without legislative approval. The lawmakers also allege that the governor deliberately hindered the Rivers State House of Assembly from carrying out its constitutional duties.
One of the key allegations involves the illegal appointment of individuals into government positions without submitting their names for screening and confirmation by the Assembly, as required by the Constitution.
The lawmakers further accused the governor of seizing salaries and funds meant for members of the House of Assembly, as well as withholding the salaries of the Clerk of the Assembly, Emeka Amadi. They also claim that the governor refused to implement constitutional provisions guaranteeing the financial autonomy of the legislature and the judiciary.
Additionally, the Assembly alleged that funds meant for the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission were withheld, thereby crippling its operations and hindering its statutory responsibilities.
The impeachment process has intensified political tensions in the state, with supporters and opponents of the governor trading accusations amid concerns over governance and stability. As the process unfolds, stakeholders across the state and beyond are closely watching developments, given their implications for constitutional governance and democratic institutions in Rivers State.