The Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum has strongly condemned the impeachment notice recently served to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
In a statement issued Friday, the forum, represented by Acting Chairman Alabo Toby, described the impeachment move as “serious constitutional business” that should not be reduced to a tool for political vendettas or factional conflicts.
The elders criticised the reasons cited for the impeachment, calling them “disturbingly weak” and lacking in public interest or constitutional weight.
They warned that the process appeared motivated by narrow personal interests rather than genuine concern for good governance.
“The people of Rivers State gave Governor Fubara a clear mandate, which can only be questioned in strict compliance with constitutional provisions, due process, and on the basis of clear, compelling, and verifiable grounds,” the statement read.
The forum cautioned that the impeachment attempt could deepen political divisions, erode public trust in democratic institutions, and destabilise the state, which is still recovering from a period of emergency rule.
“Reopening old wounds and heightening tensions at a time when stability and focused governance are urgently needed is dangerous,” the elders said.
They urged the House of Assembly to “immediately retrace its steps” and prioritise the collective interests, peace, and progress of Rivers State above partisan or personal considerations.
Reaffirming their commitment to peace and constitutional democracy, the forum declared that it “will not be silent in the face of any action that threatens the stability, dignity, and future of our state.”
The statement comes amid heightened political tension in the state, following the formal service of impeachment notices to Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu.
The elders’ intervention reflects concerns among prominent community leaders about the potential impact of the proceedings on governance and social cohesion in Rivers State.
