Rivers lawmakers warn against alleged moves to disrupt impeachment proceedings
The Rivers State House of Assembly has raised concerns over covert efforts by unnamed individuals to frustrate the ongoing impeachment process against the state’s Governor and Deputy Governor through the courts.
In a statement issued on Sunday, January 11, 2026, the Assembly said it had received credible intelligence suggesting that some persons were attempting to obtain ex parte orders from certain Rivers State High Courts outside the Port Harcourt Judicial Division.
According to the lawmakers, the alleged aim of such court actions is to unlawfully restrain the House from carrying out its constitutional duties.
The statement, signed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Hon. Enemi Alabo George, warned that any attempt to interfere with the impeachment process through judicial means would amount to a direct assault on the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Assembly cited Sections 272(3) and 188(10) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which expressly limit the jurisdiction of courts in matters relating to the tenure of elected officials and prohibit judicial intervention in impeachment proceedings.
The lawmakers noted that these constitutional provisions have been repeatedly upheld by the courts.
Referencing recent judicial decisions, the Assembly recalled rulings by the Court of Appeal that overturned similar ex parte orders previously issued by a Rivers State High Court in violation of constitutional provisions.
It warned that those allegedly plotting such actions were fully aware of these legal precedents and should desist from any conduct capable of undermining the rule of law.
The House further stated that all officials affected by the impeachment process had already been duly served with notices detailing allegations of gross misconduct, in line with constitutional requirements.
It stressed that those concerned should respond through the appropriate legal and constitutional channels rather than resorting to what it described as “underhand tactics” aimed at obstructing due process.
With the approval of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, the Assembly called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and respect constitutional order.
The lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to democratic principles, insisting that the House would not be intimidated or distracted by attempts to derail its legislative responsibilities.
The Assembly reiterating its resolve to uphold the Constitution and proceed with its duties in a transparent and lawful manner, warning that any actions capable of destabilising democratic governance in the state would be firmly resisted.
