Wike Declares: Impeachment of Governor Fubara Will Not Cause Chaos in Rivers State

Political Unrest in Rivers State: The Battle for Power Intensifies

Rivers State is once again at the center of a heated political battle as tensions rise between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly. The looming threat of impeachment has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, sparking debates on legality, governance, and ethnic tensions. However, former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has weighed in on the matter, stating unequivocally that the removal of Governor Fubara—should it happen—will not lead to anarchy.

Wike: Impeachment is a Legal Process, Not a Crime

Speaking candidly about the situation, Wike dismissed fears of political unrest, asserting that impeachment is a constitutional process embedded in Nigeria’s democracy. He emphasized that it should not be misrepresented as a criminal act. According to Wike, the Rivers State House of Assembly has the legal authority to initiate impeachment proceedings if it determines that the governor has committed offenses that warrant such action.

"No one should create unnecessary tension. Impeachment is a normal democratic process. If the governor is guilty of impeachable offenses, the House of Assembly has the right to act. That does not mean Rivers State will descend into chaos."

Wike’s stance aims to reassure both political stakeholders and the general public that the rule of law must prevail, regardless of personal or political affiliations.

The impeachment debate has not only deepened political divisions but also ignited ethnic tensions. Some Ijaw groups, angered by the potential removal of Fubara—an Ijaw man—have issued threats, warning of violent resistance, including sabotage of oil pipelines.

Wike swiftly condemned such rhetoric, challenging the idea that only Ijaw militants can wield power through force. He pointed out that other ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, such as the Ogoni, Ikwerre, and Ekpeye, are equally influential but choose to maintain peace.

"This country cannot be held hostage by ethnic militancy. Governance is not about tribe; it is about competence. Threats to destroy pipelines or destabilize the state are reckless and unacceptable."

The minister made it clear that Nigeria’s stability should not be compromised by groups attempting to use militancy as a bargaining tool in political conflicts.

PANDEF's Controversial Role in the Crisis

The Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF), a regional political advocacy group, recently met with President Bola Tinubu to discuss the Rivers crisis. However, Wike has openly criticized the group, accusing it of being compromised and driven by self-interest.

"PANDEF is not a neutral body. It is made up of political mercenaries looking for government patronage. They have no real influence on the people of the Niger Delta."

Wike’s critique suggests that the intervention of certain groups may not be entirely altruistic, raising questions about their motivations and effectiveness in resolving the crisis.

Understanding the Impeachment Process in Nigeria

Impeachment in Nigeria is a constitutional mechanism designed to ensure accountability among elected officials. The 1999 Constitution (Section 188) provides the framework for removing a sitting governor or deputy governor, ensuring due process is followed.

Steps in the Impeachment Process:

1. Presentation of Allegations – At least one-third of the House of Assembly members must sign a notice detailing allegations of gross misconduct.
2. House of Assembly Investigation – The House debates the allegations, and a two-thirds majority vote is required to move forward.
3. Judicial Panel Review – If the allegations gain sufficient support, the Chief Judge of the State appoints a seven-member panel to investigate.
4. Final Verdict – If the panel finds the governor guilty and the House secures a two-thirds majority vote, the governor is removed.

This structured process ensures that impeachment is not arbitrary and that due diligence is followed before any final decision is made.

The possible removal of Governor Fubara raises key questions about the future political climate in Rivers State. If the impeachment proceeds:

• Political Instability: A power shift could lead to further realignments and factional battles within the state.
• Ethnic Backlash: If not handled carefully, the impeachment could inflame existing ethnic tensions, particularly among Ijaw groups.
• Economic Impact: Given that Rivers State is a major oil-producing region, any disruption could have broader economic implications.

Despite these risks, Wike maintains that Rivers State will not descend into anarchy, asserting that strong institutions and democratic governance will prevail over political tensions.

The ongoing crisis in Rivers State serves as a litmus test for Nigeria’s democracy. Will the rule of law triumph over political maneuvering? Can governance be separated from ethnic loyalty? As the impeachment process unfolds, it is imperative for all stakeholders—lawmakers, ethnic groups, and political leaders—to prioritize constitutional order over personal interests.

As Wike rightfully points out, governance is not a battlefield for ethnic supremacy but a platform for service delivery. Whether Governor Fubara is removed or not, the real question remains: Will Rivers State emerge stronger from this political storm, or will it be plunged into further division?

The unfolding drama in Rivers State is a clear reminder that political stability is fragile and must be guarded with wisdom. While impeachment remains a constitutional right, it must be exercised with transparency, fairness, and respect for democratic principles. Whether Fubara survives this challenge or not, the future of Rivers State must not be determined by ethnic brinkmanship or political opportunism but by the will of the people and the rule of law.

As the crisis unfolds, one truth stands firm: The resilience of Nigeria’s democracy will be measured by its ability to withstand political storms without descending into chaos.