Two members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have urged their colleagues to halt impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.
The Minority Leader, Sylvanus Nwankwo representing Omuma State Constituency , and Peter Abbey Degema State Constituency, made the appeal at a news briefing in Port Harcourt where they asked their colleagues to pursue dialogue.
Nwankwo said elders, traditional rulers and political leaders had expressed concern that impeachment could deepen divisions in the state.
“We are appealing to the conscience of our colleagues. Having listened to so many pleas and calls from our elders and leaders, both within and outside the state, begging for leniency, we too are begging and calling on our colleagues to reconsider our steps and see how this matter can be resolved amicably,” he said.
Abbey said the intervention was aimed at preserving peace and stability, adding that any settlement would require assurances from the governor to avoid further violations.
“We plead with our colleagues to reconsider, provided the governor too has a role to play. He must ensure that he does not further infringe on the Constitution. That is what will bring about an amicable settlement,” Abbey added.
26 lawmakers of the Rivers Assembly had instituted impeachment proceedings against the Governor based on eight allegations including unapproved budgetary spendings, appointment of cabinet members without Assembly screenings.
