The Rivers State House of Assembly significantly escalated its confrontation with Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Friday by officially requesting that the state’s Chief Judge establish an investigative panel.

The panel is intended to probe allegations of “gross misconduct” leveled against both the Governor and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.

Through a unanimous vote, the legislators pledged to forge ahead with the impeachment process, signaling a refusal to back down.

This latest development is part of a deep-seated political crisis that has plagued the oil-rich state following the breakdown of the relationship between Fubara, the state lawmakers, and his predecessor—the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Read Also: Rivers Assembly Writes Chief Judge To Constitute Panel To Investigate Allegations Of Gross Misconduct Against Fubara, Deputy [PHOTO]

Below is a step-by-step process for impeaching a state governor in Nigeria, in line with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended):

1. Grounds For Impeachment
Impeachment can only be initiated for “gross misconduct” — a serious breach of the Constitution or misconduct deemed by the House as amounting to gross misconduct.

2. Notice Of Allegation
At least one-third of the members of the State House of Assembly must sign a written notice of allegation against the governor, outlining the alleged misconduct. This notice is then presented to the Speaker.

3. Serving The Notice
Within seven days of receiving the notice, the Speaker must serve a copy to the governor and each member of the State House of Assembly.

4. Gov’s Response
The governor has the right to reply to the allegations in writing. Any response must be circulated to all members of the assembly.

5. Initial Assembly Vote
Within 14 days of the notice being presented, the House must vote (without debate) on whether the allegations warrant a formal investigation. A two-thirds majority of all members is required to proceed.

6. Formation Of Investigative Panel
If the motion passes, the Speaker must request the Chief Judge of the state to appoint a seven-member investigative panel of persons with unquestionable integrity (not from public service, legislature, or political parties) to investigate the allegations.

7. Panel Investigation
The panel has up to three months to investigate the allegations and submit its report to the state House of Assembly. The governor may appear or be represented by legal counsel.

8. Panel Findings
If the panel finds the allegations unproven, the impeachment process ends. If the panel finds the allegations proved, the House will consider the report.

9. Final Removal Vote
Within 14 days of receiving the panel’s report, the House must vote on a resolution to adopt the report. This also requires a two-thirds majority of all members. If adopted, the governor is removed from office immediately.

10. Succession
Upon removal, the deputy governor is sworn in as governor. If both the governor and deputy are removed simultaneously, the Speaker of the House becomes the acting governor, and elections must be held within 90 days.

11. Finality Of Process
Section 188 includes an ouster clause barring courts from entertaining or questioning impeachment proceedings or determinations once due process is followed.

This process ensures constitutional due process, safeguards the rights of the accused governor, and limits judicial interference once properly executed by the legislature.