Fubara insists “I’m still governor of Rivers” amid impeachment proceedings
Rivers State Governor **Siminalayi Fubara has publicly insisted that he remains the duly elected governor of the state despite ongoing impeachment proceedings initiated by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, in a tense political standoff that has captured national attention. Fubara made the declaration while speaking at the grand finale of the 2026 Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament, where he sought to reassure residents, officials and guests that his administration continues to function and deliver services for the people of Rivers State.
In his remarks, Fubara stressed that protecting lives and property and upholding security across the state remain his top priorities amid the political drama. He described the peaceful completion of the week-long polo event with no security incident as evidence that Rivers State is safe and stable under his leadership, dismissing negative narratives circulating on social media about unrest or governance collapse. The governor noted that he was “here” and “still the governor of Rivers State,” reaffirming his commitment to continue fulfilling the promises his administration made to the people.
The impeachment proceedings were initiated by the Rivers State House of Assembly earlier this month, with lawmakers accusing Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, of gross misconduct. The legislature said it forwarded notices of the allegations to the governor while awaiting their formal responses, even as a High Court in Port Harcourt issued an interim order restraining officials from acting on any impeachment notices. Despite the court order, the Assembly maintained that the impeachment process remains active and has sought to move forward.
Fubara also addressed the political tension with humour while referencing the impeachment notice, characterising it as a “love letter” rather than a threat to his office and urging stakeholders to focus on peace and constructive development. He emphasised that his administration would not support any action that could undermine public safety, and called on Rivers citizens and investors to continue engaging positively with his government’s agenda.
The political crisis in Rivers State is entwined with broader tensions within the state’s political landscape and reflects deep divisions between the executive branch and elements of the legislature. Fubara’s refusal to step down and his public reaffirmation of authority come as the standoff continues to unfold, with both political and legal dimensions shaping how the situation might evolve in the coming weeks.
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