A Rivers State High Court has issued an order stopping the state’s House of Assembly from continuing with plans to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. The order was granted on Friday in Oyigbo, Port Harcourt.
The court’s interim injunction specifically restrains the Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, and two other officials. It prevents them from taking any steps towards the impeachment process until the matter is properly heard and decided. This legal action brings the Assembly’s political move to a sudden halt.
The crisis stems from a deepening political feud within the state’s leadership. The House of Assembly had recently initiated steps seen as the beginning of impeachment proceedings against the governor, creating major tension in the oil-rich region.
Governor Fubara, who has been at the center of this power struggle, now has temporary relief due to the court’s decision. The ruling effectively freezes the political crisis, providing a pause for potential resolution or further legal arguments.
Legal experts note that such an injunction maintains the status quo. It means all actions related to the impeachment must stop until the court determines whether the Assembly’s actions are lawful or not. The case represents a significant judicial check on legislative power.
The court has scheduled a follow-up hearing to fully consider the arguments. The outcome is being closely watched, as it will heavily influence the political stability of Rivers State in the coming weeks.
