In a dramatic shift that has intensified the political crisis in Rivers State, four members of the House of Assembly who had recently called for a “political solution” have reversed their stance.
The lawmakers have now reversed their position, declaring full support for the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.
Led by Minority Leader Sylvanus Nwankwo (Omuma Constituency), made the announcement was made during a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Joining him were Peter Abbey (Degema), Barile Nwakoh (Khana I), and Emilia Amadi (Obio/Akpor II).
The group had originally distanced themselves from the impeachment push earlier in the week, citing the need for de-escalation and peace.
However, Nwankwo said on Friday that their plea for a political solution had been ignored by the executive arm.
“Instead of seeking the political solution which we offered, we found out that the governor and the deputy governor have employed their media aides to continuously attack the House of Assembly,” Nwankwo said.
“It is on this basis that we say the impeachment proceedings should continue.”
Nwakoh and Amadi echoed these sentiments, alleging that the governor had shown no willingness to retrace his steps or govern in accordance with the constitution.
The impeachment process, which officially began on January 8, 2025, is led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule.
The Assembly failed to hold a scheduled plenary on Thursday amid reports of a counter-move to remove Speaker Amaewhule, but Friday’s briefing signaled that the leadership remains committed to the impeachment process.
Meanwhile, the Pan-Niger Delta Forum inaugurated a reconciliation committee on Friday in a renewed effort to mediate the crisis, warning that continued instability in Rivers State could pose broader national security concerns.
