Two members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have formally withdrawn from the ongoing impeachment process against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, calling instead for dialogue and reconciliation.
The lawmakers are the Minority Leader of the Assembly, Sylvanus Nwankwo, who represents Omuma State Constituency, and Peter Abbey, representing Degema State Constituency.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, the two legislators said their decision was informed by appeals from stakeholders and a desire to prevent further political tension in the state. They also urged their colleagues in the House to embrace a peaceful resolution rather than pursue impeachment.
Nwankwo acknowledged that Governor Fubara may have breached certain constitutional provisions but appealed for understanding and restraint.
“Yes, we have identified areas where the governor may have infringed on parts of the constitution, but we believe these issues can be addressed,” Nwankwo said. “We see them as human errors that can be resolved amicably without plunging the state into deeper crisis.”
Abbey echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the impeachment process could further polarise the state if not handled with caution.
“We have received several calls from respected stakeholders within and outside Rivers State,” Abbey said. “They have appealed to us to allow peace to prevail and to find a common ground in resolving the disagreement between the House and the governor.”
Both lawmakers emphasised that their withdrawal was in the interest of peace, stability and good governance in Rivers State. They maintained that dialogue remained the best option for addressing grievances between the executive and the legislature.
“Impeachment should be a last resort,” Nwankwo added. “At this point, Rivers people want peace, not prolonged political battles.”
The development comes amid heightened political tension in Rivers State following moves by some lawmakers to impeach Governor Fubara and his deputy over alleged gross misconduct.
