Two members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have withdrawn their backing for the impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, urging colleagues to de-escalate the ongoing political crisis and pursue dialogue and reconciliation instead.
Hon. Sylvanus Nwankwo, the Minority Leader representing Omuma State Constituency, and Hon. Peter Abbey, representing Degema State Constituency, announced their change of stance at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on January 12, 2026. The lawmakers said they have reconsidered their earlier support for the impeachment process in light of sustained calls from state elders and community leaders for peace and stability.
Nwankwo appealed to his fellow legislators to “temper justice with mercy” and explore alternatives to the impeachment route, warning that continued confrontation could deepen divisions and distract from governance priorities. Abbey echoed the sentiment, describing the situation as one that necessitates a human-centred approach rather than heightened political conflict.
Their withdrawal comes amid a broader political standoff in Rivers State, where earlier this month 26 lawmakers had issued a notice of impeachment against the governor and his deputy on grounds of alleged misconduct. The latest intervention highlights growing pressure within political and social circles for restraint, reconciliation and a peaceful resolution of the dispute.
Observers say the move by Nwankwo and Abbey could signal fractures within the Assembly’s ranks and complicate the trajectory of the impeachment effort, even as the broader legislative process continues to unfold.
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