The Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday initiated fresh impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Oduh.
According to Gossip News Now , lawmakers led by Majority Leader Major Jack presented eight formal allegations against Governor Fubara.
The accusations include:
- Reckless and unconstitutional expenditure of public funds.
- Misappropriation of public resources in violation of the constitution.
- Obstructing the Rivers State House of Assembly from performing its constitutional duties.
- Making appointments without Assembly screening as required by law.
- Seizing salaries and funds intended for lawmakers.
- Withholding the salary of the House Clerk, Emeka Amadi.
- Refusing to implement constitutional provisions for the financial autonomy of the legislature and judiciary.
- Retaining funds meant for the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission, limiting its operations.
Step-by-Step Process to Impeach a Governor in Nigeria
1. Notice of Allegations
A written notice alleging gross misconduct must be signed by at least one-third of the State Assembly members and submitted to the Speaker. The notice must clearly specify the allegations.
2. Service of Notice
The Speaker is required to serve the notice to the Governor within seven days, officially informing them of the allegations.
3. Resolution to Investigate
Within 14 days of receiving the notice, the House votes on whether to investigate the allegations. This motion must be approved by at least two-thirds of all members. If the motion fails, the process stops immediately.
4. Constitution of an Investigation Panel
If the motion passes, the Speaker requests the Chief Judge of the State to form a seven-member panel. Panel members must be of unquestionable integrity and cannot be politicians or public servants.
5. Investigation by the Panel
The panel is given three months to investigate the allegations. The Governor has the right to defend himself personally or through legal representation, and a fair hearing is mandatory.
6. Panel’s Report
After the investigation, the panel submits its findings to the House. If no misconduct is established, the process ends. If misconduct is confirmed, the House proceeds to the next step.
7. Final Removal Vote
The House must pass a resolution to remove the Governor, supported by at least two-thirds of all members. Once passed, the Governor is immediately removed from office.
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