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OPINION: Wike’s Cry And Legality Of Fubara’s Impeachment Plot

Published

4 months ago

January 22, 2026

By Embassy-Oseni Momodu

Prof. David Easton’s iconic definition of politics as the authoritative allocation of values finds interpretative expression in the unfolding political drama in Rivers state. Resource control, appointment into political offices, institutional reforms, etcetera are few indicators of these values.

In Baron de Motesque’s view, he postulates that it’s dangerous to allow Monarch (executive), the House of Commons (legislaure) and Judges (judiciary) fuse power under the control of one person. He then propounded doctrine of “Separation of Power” as panacea against tyrany. Modern democracies align with this principle beyond mere philosophical and ideological postulations.

This principle is now codified as part of our laws in the constitution. Despite this constitutional proviso against fusion of power in one Arm of government, smart Presidents, Governors and Council Chairmen have skillfully balanced interests with occupiers of the other two Arms for smooth running of governance. This institutional synergy is crucial for speeding growth and development. But oftentimes, they’re loosely tagged “rubber stamps”.

I now delve into Governor Fubara’s impeachment plot by the Assembly men. One may be tempted to ask whether there’s something else they aren’t telling Nigerians. Peter Odili, Rotimi Amaechi and Nyesome Wike served two terms of 8 standard years each in the same Rivers State. They too endured challenges but still ended well without being sacked.

In war strategy, much like in politics, do not overestimate your strength and don’t underestimate your adversary however perceived inconsequential. The adversary being Wike, Fubara’s political godfather and Assembly men are now calling for Fubara sack.

The day a Governor loses confidence of his legislators is the beginning of his political uncertainty. This is because, his continued stay in office may be threatened by the Assembly, perhaps, under vague ground. A reference point of history between Alhaji Balarabe Musa and Kaduna state House of Assembly in 1981 which led to his removal by NPN. Those downplaying the impeachment aren’t doing Fubara any favor. Legislators are powerful. They own the knife.

Section 188 of the CFRN 1999 is the legal foundation for removal of Governor and Deputy Governor. The law is that whenever Governor or Deputy commits impeachable offence (s) as opined by the Rivers State House of Assembly, the holder of the office shall be impeached without delay, provided all relevant procedures and conditions precedent have been complied with strictu sesu. It’s preposterous for Fubara to preemptively assume the Assembly can do nothing. He shouldn’t have to learn the hard way again before he takes heed.

With court order obtained by Governor Fubara suggestively to halt the impeachment proceedings, Section 188 (10) has this to say: “No proceedings or determination of the Panel or of the House of Assembly or any matter relating to such proceedings or determination shall be entertained or questioned in any court”.

It’s an affront on our legal system for court to have given such order, for they are not vested powers to clog impeachment process legally commenced by the House of Assembly of a State. The Rivers state Chief Judge can’t be arm twisted to abandon his constitutional duties of constituting the Panel of Enquiry to investigate the alleged wrongdoings of the Governor.

The constitution further clarified what constitute “gross misconduct” in the following words thus: Section 188 (11)- In this section -“gross misconduct” means a grave violation or breach of the provisions of this Constitution or a misconduct of such nature as amounts in the opinion in the House of Assembly to gross misconduct.

The scope of “gross misconduct” is wide as to encompass whatever in the opinion of the legislators qualifies as such. This doesn’t mean the constitution handed them unfettered power to unseat a Governor without justifiable cause. That will amount to abuse of their office. Nevertheless, they are bound by doctrine of ‘stare decisis’ to respect the Court Order until another counter order to vacate same.

When a Governor acts like no Assembly exists, he may be tempting them to invoke their power of oversight functions constitutionally vested to checkmate his excesses. In contrast, in Edo State, Monday Okpebholo inherited a PDP-dominated House of Assembly in November 2024 under the current Speaker, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, who then was Governor Obaseki’s best man. Today, the House is APC dominated with an overwhelming majority courtesy of Okpebholo’s political mystery. A silent achiever.

The power tussle in Rivers with Nyesome Wike is puerile going by the antecedents which preceeded his coming to office. I’m not holding brief for the Minister but as a student of ‘school of loyalty’, undermining Wike portends significant sense of ingratitude if he may reflect. But for the House of Assembly created by an Act of the National Assembly as a sacred Arm of government, Fubara must treat it with respect as a legal obligation within the bounds of the law. Failing which constitutes gross misconduct as well.

Disloyalty in politics has consequences. Ask former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos state. I may not be a fan of Wike but as Fubara’s benefactor, he deserved at least a modicum of regard. If it was by smartness, intellect and brevity, Fubara won’t rank the 1000th in Rivers state. But to the Glory of God, he’s the Governor. Aside him where Dakuku Peterside, Magnus Abe, Dr. Mike Nwielaghi, etcetera are capable of governing the state. He should learn to humble himself as his colleagues Oborevwori, Sanwo-Olu, Monday Okpebholo within the south south region. Should the Assembly insist on going ahead (without caution) Fubara’s fate may gravitate towards the mercy of the Assembly, in which case, only Wike and the President can save him by then. The question is- why would a Governor vacillate taking action to quench ignoble looming humiliation?.

Nyesome Wike has advanced to becoming a statesman and he should respect that status too. The power tussle between him and His Excellency Siminalaye Fubara is absolutely demeaning. Politics of betrayal is the albatross to enduring mutual trust, making their reunion a difficult task.

In Delta state, Sheriff Oborevwori is the Governor of the state, but acknowledges Mr. Ifeanyi Okowa as his leader. In Lagos state, Mr. Sanwo-Olu is Governor of the state, yet Bola Tinubu is his supreme leader. The states of Kogi, Adamawa, Borno, etcetera, etcetera are reference points to confirm this analogy. No reward for ruffling ego with your benefactor. It doesn’t always end well.

As usual, Nigerians are divided over Fubara’s perceived disloyalty against the man who brought him to the national limelight amidst allegations of overbearing influence over the Governor. Tinubu was sometimes accused of the same in Lagos when Akinwumi Ambode misbehaved. That Lagos now float over 4 trillion naira annual budget (2026 Appropriation Law) is the product of Tinubu’s visionary leadership; silencing his critics after 27 years of unbroken leadership chaine.

Loyalty is crucial in politics. It came to tacid test last year over Speakership tussle between Hon. Mudashiru Obasa and Hon. Mojisola Meranda of the Lagos Assembly. In the end, Obasa was restored as Speaker after he was earlier impeached by his colleagues and succeeded by Deputy Speaker, Meranda. Tinubu’s influence, dialogue prevailed on Meranda and other Assembly Honorables to rescind actions for Obasa’s return as Speaker, while Miranda returned to her seat as Deputy Speaker. That’s ‘loyalty’ at play, all to honor Tinubu and stability of the party. Even in military protocols, loyalty is superior is key. Emphasizing, l’m a loyal party man to my APC leaders such as Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Governor Okpebholo, Rep. Anamero Dekeri, Minister Abubakar Momoh, etcetera in Edo state.

President Bola Tinubu that l know abhors disloyalty. Ingratitude is now openly celebrated by some prominent party officials. The APC is a party founded on the notion of loyalty to party leaders and rule of law.

I respectfully submit that in the intriguing issues in Rivers state, dialogue, not rhetorics is the quickest solution to the political impass. Tinubu must intervene now. Having regards to the famous “48 Laws of Power”, Sim Fubara is failing a leadership litmus test, not good for his reputation. May our loyalty never be tested.

Embassy-Oseni Momodu, writes from Abuja, FCT Nigeria.

News

Children’s Day: Chaos At Ogbe Stadium As Dozens Faint

Published

7 hours ago

May 27, 2026

Editor

Chaos erupted on Wednesday during the Children’s Day celebration as dozens of students reportedly collapsed following a stampede triggered by the use of pepper spray.

The event,
organised by the Edo State Ministry of Education at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was disrupted after some male students of Ihogbe College allegedly made uncompromising advances towards female students at the venue.
‎
‎ A parent who identified himself as Oboh Emmanuel said, “the behaviour of those uncultured students attracted the attention of bouncers stationed at the stadium as they rebuked the male students.”
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‎Oboh said the affected students later regrouped and attacked the bouncers, leading to a confrontation within the crowded arena.

READ ALSO:Children’s Day: Edo Commits To Child Protection
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It was gathered that in the ensuing confusion, the bouncers were reported to have deployed pepper spray in an area occupied by a large number of students.
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‎Several students, particularly female students, reportedly fainted after inhaling the substance, while others sustained injuries after being stepped on during the ensuing melee.
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‎The panic was said to have spread across the stadium as students, teachers and parents scampered for safety.
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‎Many of the affected students were reportedly rushed to the Edo Specialist Hospital for medical attention.

Reacting to the incident, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr Patrick Ebojele, said the security personnel that fired the tear gas had been detained.

He said all the students, except two, that were rushed to the hospital have been discharged.

Ebojele stated that doctors wanted to observe the students till tomorrow before allowing them to go home.

“The two students are not seriously injured. Doctors want to observe them overnight. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education is still at the hospital. The man who used pepper spray has been detained.

“The incident did not happen the way it is being exaggerated. All modalities were put in place to ensure the children enjoyed their day.”
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Okpebholo Salutes Edo Muslims, Seeks Continued Support, Prayers

Published

8 hours ago

May 27, 2026

Editor

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has urged Muslims and all Nigerians to continue to pray for peace, unity and progress in the country even as they celebrate the annual Eid-al-Adha

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, stated this during the annual Eid-al-Adha celebration with Muslim faithfuls held at Government House in Benin City.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens irrespective of religion and tribe.

According to him, the present administration remains determined to building a government that reflects the diversity of Edo State, noting that competent and qualified Muslims have continued to play vital roles in his government because of their capacity, integrity and commitment to service.

“As a government, we remain committed to fairness, inclusivity and equal opportunity for every Edo citizen, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation. This is why quality and competent Muslims are serving in key positions in our administration.”

Okpebholo appreciated the Muslim community in Edo State for their unwavering support and continuous prayers for his administration, noting that such prayers and support have contributed immensely to the peace and steady development being witnessed across the state.

He then called on all Nigerians to use the occasion of Eid-al-Adha to pray for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that the country needs collective prayers, unity and cooperation to overcome its present economic and security challenges.

“I urge all Muslims and indeed all Nigerians to use this occasion to pray for our dear nation and for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Nigeria needs our collective prayers, unity and support as we strive to overcome our challenges and build a more prosperous future for all.”

In his remarks, the Chief Imam of Edo State, Abdulfatai Enabulele, applauded the governor for what he described as remarkable developmental strides recorded in less than two years in office.

The cleric commended the administration for ongoing infrastructural development and efforts geared towards improving governance in the state, but appealed to the government to revisit and complete some abandoned projects inherited from the previous administration for the benefit of the people.

News

Children’s Day: Edo Commits To Child Protection

Published

8 hours ago

May 27, 2026

Editor

The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of children, promoting quality education, and strengthening sports development across the state.

This assurance was given by the governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, during the 2026 Children’s Day Celebration and Governor’s Cup Finale held on Wednesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.

Addressing pupils, students and teachers,
the governor described children as the pride of Edo State and the future of the nation.

The governor, represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa,
noted that the annual celebration provides an opportunity to honour their dreams, talents, and limitless potential.

Speaking on this year’s Children’s Day theme, “Choose Kindness, Reject Bullying,” the governor said the message was timely and significant, as it emphasizes the need to create safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for children both in schools and communities.

He stated that bullying in all forms — physical, verbal, emotional, or online — has no place in society, adding that the Edo State Government remains fully committed to protecting the rights and dignity of every child.

According to him, the administration will continue to strengthen policies and programmes that promote child protection, discipline, mutual respect, and positive learning environments across schools in the State.

The governor urged children to embrace kindness, compassion, teamwork, and respect for one another, stressing that true strength lies not in intimidation but in empathy, good character, and mutual understanding.