Lawyers Respond to Rivers Assembly’s Misconduct Notice Against Governor Fubara and Deputy

Lawyers Respond to Rivers Assembly’s Misconduct Notice Against Governor Fubara and Deputy

Senior legal experts in Nigeria have weighed in on the recent misconduct notice issued to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Ngozi Odu, by the Rivers State House of Assembly. They emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to due process as the impeachment proceedings unfold………..READ MORE

Speaking to Vanguard, the legal professionals acknowledged the legislature’s authority to initiate impeachment but stressed that the process must align with constitutional provisions.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dayo Akinlaja, noted that while the Assembly has the right to serve an impeachment notice, the process is not solely within its control. He urged Nigerians to observe how events unfold, stating, “May justice prevail in this regard.”

Human rights lawyer Mark Oguche pointed out that the Rivers Assembly’s actions align with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates the procedure for impeaching a governor. He explained that the impeachment process requires at least one-third of lawmakers to sign the notice before it can proceed. The governor is entitled to a fair hearing, after which a vote will determine whether the process moves forward.

“For impeachment to advance, a two-thirds majority endorsement by lawmakers is needed. Additionally, the Chief Judge of the state must appoint a seven-member panel to investigate the allegations,” Oguche said. He reassured that the constitutional framework provides adequate safeguards to ensure fairness.

Another legal expert, Nwokedi Eziama, advised that Governor Fubara could seek judicial intervention if he believes his rights are being violated. He suggested that obtaining a court order could help preserve his position while any legal disputes regarding the Assembly’s actions are resolved.

Meanwhile, Senior Advocate Mohammed Abeny offered a brief remark, saying, “Let us watch and see how they (Rivers Assembly) go about it, especially since they are on indefinite recess.”

This development has sparked significant debate over the legality and political implications of the impeachment notice, with many calling for a fair and lawful resolution to the matter.