The International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights (ISSJHR) has denounced the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu. In a statement, the organization cautioned lawmakers against misinterpreting the public’s patience as a sign of weakness.
According to ISSJHR’s Chancellor, Omenazu Jackson, the impeachment move is “anti-democratic, constitutionally reckless, and a blatant abuse of legislative authority.” Jackson emphasized that impeachment is a constitutional process governed by law, requiring clearly established allegations of gross misconduct supported by due process, as outlined in Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution.
The organization referenced the constitutional requirements for impeachment, including specific allegations of gross misconduct, adherence to due process, the right to fair hearing, and strict procedural compliance. Any departure from these requirements would render the impeachment null and void, Jackson stated.
ISSJHR also cited the doctrine of separation of powers, enshrined in Sections 4, 5, and 6 of the Constitution, which prohibits any arm of government from dominating or coercing another. The Legislature, therefore, cannot lawfully intimidate or pressure the Executive into relinquishing its constitutional mandate or policy direction outside the boundaries of the law.
The organization called on both the Executive and Legislative arms to exercise restraint and remain faithful to constitutional principles, emphasizing the importance of harmony between the two arms of government for peace, stability, and sustainable development. ISSJHR reaffirmed its support for constitutional order and warned that any attempt to force or intimidate the governor into acting against the will of the people would face legal resistance.
The governor’s mandate, Jackson noted, derives directly from the people, and he cannot be compelled to act against their overall interest. Any impeachment process divorced from the genuine will of the electorate would constitute an attack on popular sovereignty and democratic legitimacy. ISSJHR cautioned against crisis merchants, political opportunists, and constitutional saboteurs, warning that any attempt to remove the governor outside the clear provisions of the Constitution would be firmly and lawfully resisted by the people using all democratic and legal means available within the Nigerian constitutional framework.
The developments in Rivers State have significant implications for the country’s democratic governance and the rule of law. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the impeachment proceedings will proceed and whether the parties involved will adhere to constitutional principles.
