Impeachment: Rivers Chief Judge Hailed for Refusing to Constitute Panel Against Fubara
A pro-democracy group, the Coalition for Democratic Accountability and Rule of Law (CDARL), has expressed support for Rivers State Chief Judge, Simeon Amadi, commending him for his refusal to form a judicial panel to investigate Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu. The coalition deems the Chief Judge’s decision as lawful and in line with constitutional mandates, attributed to existing court orders and an ongoing appeal that impede any impeachment actions.
In their statement, CDARL clarified that there are interim injunctions which prevent the Chief Judge from responding to the Rivers State House of Assembly’s impeachment request, thereby leaving him no discretionary power under Section 188(5) of the Constitution. National President Barrister Ibrahim Lawal Abdulkareem asserted that the Chief Judge’s insistence that his authority was “fettered” highlights a commitment to legal protocols rather than political biases.
According to the coalition, the Chief Judge’s interpretation of the doctrine of lis pendens—preserving the integrity of judicial proceedings while an appeal is in process—is both appropriate and legally justified. The principle requires all parties to maintain the status quo while litigation is active in a higher court, making the Chief Judge’s refusal to proceed with impeachment matters not an obstruction but a respect for constitutional discipline.
CDARL cautioned that any further impeachment attempts by the Rivers Assembly, defying court orders, could be seen as an affront to judicial authority, potentially leading to a constitutional crisis in the state. The coalition emphasized that impeachment is a serious legislative power that should not be wielded as a political tool, especially when it contravenes court rulings.
The group advocated for patience and legality, urging lawmakers to await the appeal’s conclusion before pursuing further actions. They noted that disregarding judicial directives often signals the onset of constitutional breakdowns. Abdulkareem reiterated that constitutional restraint is not a sign of weakness but a necessary posture for democratic viability.
Additionally, the coalition stressed that their stance is not a defense of any specific political figure but a commitment to uphold judicial independence and constitutional integrity, warning against the long-term risks to democratic order that could arise from undermining the judiciary.
The ongoing tensions in Rivers State are evident, as Governor Fubara faces mounting pressure from the state assembly, suggesting that the environment remains politically charged following the recent reinstatement of democratic structures after an emergency rule. The Rivers Assembly has also voiced concerns over public infrastructure quality, indicating a broader dissatisfaction with the executive branch’s efforts in addressing local issues.
Overall, the situation reflects significant political strife within Rivers State, and the actions of the Chief Judge, backed by CDARL, underline the critical interplay between judicial authority and legislative power in maintaining constitutional governance.
