The Rivers State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against the Governor and Deputy Governor of the state, formally issuing notices of alleged gross misconduct against both officials.
During plenary, the House invoked the provisions of Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and other relevant laws to back its action. The notice against the Governor was read by the Leader of the House, Major Jack, while the Deputy Leader, Linda Stewart, presented the allegations against the Deputy Governor.
According to the lawmakers, the accusations against the executive duo include failure to present the state budget for legislative consideration, alleged unauthorised expenditure of public funds, and the withholding of salaries and statutory allocations meant for the House of Assembly, the Clerk of the Assembly, and the Assembly Service Commission.
The legislators also accused the Governor and his deputy of bypassing the constitutionally recognised House of Assembly in the screening and confirmation of appointments, as well as approving the demolition of the Assembly complex.
A total of 26 lawmakers endorsed the notices, arguing that the actions attributed to the Governor and Deputy Governor amount to constitutional violations and demonstrate an inability to effectively discharge the responsibilities of their offices.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House assured members that the notices would be formally served on both the Governor and Deputy Governor within seven days, in line with constitutional requirements.
