The International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights (ISSJHR) has condemned the commencement of impeachment proceedings against Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, cautioning lawmakers not to mistake public patience for weakness.
ISSJHR described the impeachment move as anti-democratic, constitutionally reckless, and a blatant abuse of legislative powers. The organization emphasized that impeachment is a legal process, not a political tool, and must strictly comply with Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which requires proven allegations of gross misconduct supported by due process.
The group highlighted that the Constitution mandates clear allegations, due process, fair hearings, legislative quorum, judicial panel investigation, and strict procedural compliance, noting that any deviation renders an impeachment null, void, and unconstitutional.
ISSJHR also pointed to the doctrine of separation of powers under Sections 4, 5, and 6 of the Constitution, stressing that no branch of government can dominate or coerce another. Lawmakers were warned against intimidating the executive into acting outside the law.
The organization urged both the Executive and Legislature to exercise restraint, stressing that harmony between the two arms of government is essential for good governance, peace, and development. It emphasized that any attempt to pressure the governor to act against the electorate’s interest would be resisted.
ISSJHR further warned that impeachment efforts disconnected from the genuine will of the people undermine popular sovereignty and democratic legitimacy. Crisis instigators, political opportunists, and constitutional saboteurs were cautioned against actions capable of destabilizing Rivers State, with the organization vowing that any attempt to remove the governor outside constitutional provisions would be lawfully resisted by citizens using all democratic and legal means.