Rivers Assembly raises alarm over alleged plot to stall impeachment process

By Johnson Arua

The Rivers State House of Assembly has raised concerns over what it described as covert attempts by unnamed individuals to interfere with the ongoing impeachment proceedings against the state’s Governor and Deputy Governor.

In a statement signed by the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Hon. Dr. Enemi Alabo George and dated January 11, 2026, the Assembly revealed that it had received credible intelligence indicating that some persons were seeking to procure ex parte court orders from Rivers State High Courts outside the Port Harcourt Judicial Division.

According to the lawmakers, the alleged moves are aimed at illegally halting the Assembly from discharging its constitutional responsibilities, particularly with regard to the impeachment process.

The Assembly warned that any effort to stop the proceedings through such means would constitute a direct assault on the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

It explained that the Constitution clearly circumscribes the role of the judiciary in impeachment matters, citing Sections 272(3) and 188(10) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which bar courts from entertaining cases relating to the tenure of elected officials or impeachment proceedings.

The lawmakers also referenced recent rulings of the Court of Appeal, which nullified similar ex parte orders issued in previous cases, reaffirming that courts lack jurisdiction in impeachment-related issues.

The statement further noted that all officials affected by the impeachment process have been duly served with notices detailing allegations of gross misconduct and are expected to respond through constitutionally recognised channels.

Rather than resorting to what the Assembly termed “subterranean moves,” the lawmakers urged those concerned to respect due process and the rule of law.
With the approval of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, the House called on all stakeholders to remain calm and avoid actions capable of undermining democratic institutions.

The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to the Constitution and democratic principles, insisting that it would not be distracted, intimidated, or pressured into abandoning its lawful duties.