PORT HARCOURT – The legislative effort to oust Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy has encountered a significant setback as two influential members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have officially rescinded their support for the impeachment move.
The Honourable Sylvanus Nwankwo, Minority Leader and Member for Omuma, alongside Peter Abbey, representing Degema, have formally retraced their steps, urging the Assembly to halt the ongoing constitutional proceedings.
In a televised press briefing held on Monday, the two lawmakers clarified that they are no longer aligned with the push for removal. While they acknowledged the initial allegations of constitutional breaches, they insisted that the path of impeachment should be abandoned in favour of a negotiated settlement.
The decision to rescind their stance follows what the lawmakers described as intense diplomatic pressure from “elders and leaders” both within Rivers State and across the country. They argued that the stability of the state outweighs the necessity of the current legal battle.
“We are begging our colleagues to reconsider our steps,” the duo stated, marking a sharp departure from the consensus that saw an impeachment notice served only last Thursday. “Having listened to the appeals for leniency, we now believe this matter must be resolved amicably, notwithstanding the alleged infringements by the Executive.”
This withdrawal by Mr Nwankwo and Mr Abbey represents a fracturing of the legislative front against the Governor. By rescinding their move, the lawmakers have introduced a narrative of mercy and reconciliation, placing the remaining proponents of the impeachment under increased scrutiny.
The Governor and Deputy Governor had been accused of gross misconduct, but with key representatives now pulling back, the political arithmetic required to see the impeachment through to its conclusion may be in jeopardy. As of this morning, all eyes remain on the House of Assembly to see if other members will follow this lead and rescind their support as well.
