Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, made their first joint public appearance on Sunday, January 11, 2026, since the Rivers State House of Assembly initiated fresh impeachment proceedings against them on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The duo attended a special interdenominational church service held to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at St. Cyprian’s Anglican Church in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
The event, which honored Nigerian servicemen and women who made the supreme sacrifice in defense of the nation's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, included prayers for the repose of the souls of fallen heroes and for the safety and protection of those currently serving in the armed forces. It formed part of a week-long program marking the annual remembrance, with the church service serving as a solemn gathering attended by senior government officials, military veterans, clergy, and members of the public.
Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu were reportedly out of the country on official engagements when the impeachment notice was first raised during plenary on Thursday. The process was presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, with the Majority Leader, Major Jack, reading out allegations of gross misconduct signed by 26 members of the assembly. The notices, forwarded to both officials pursuant to Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), accused them of various infractions, though specifics have not been fully detailed in public statements.
The assembly confirmed on Friday, January 9, 2026, that the impeachment process remains fully ongoing and has not been suspended, refuting circulating rumors of a halt. In a press release signed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Enemi George, the lawmakers emphasized their constitutional duty to act against any perceived violations, stating the proceedings are "on course in line with relevant provisions of the Constitution." The assembly also denied claims that the move is influenced by external figures, insisting it is an independent legislative action.
This marks the third attempt to impeach Governor Fubara since he assumed office in May 2023, following earlier political tensions that have dominated Rivers State's governance landscape. The renewed proceedings have heightened speculation and drawn reactions from various quarters, including criticisms that the efforts undermine democracy and constitutionalism.
At the church service, Governor Fubara addressed the congregation briefly, appealing for calm among residents amid the unfolding political developments. He emphasized the importance of peace in the state, stating that what matters most is the stability and progress of Rivers State. "I want everyone to be relaxed. What is most important is the peace for our dear state, and by the special grace of God, we will achieve it," he reportedly said, framing the moment as one of reflection and unity rather than confrontation. The governor's calm demeanor and call for restraint were seen by observers as a deliberate effort to de-escalate tensions while maintaining focus on governance and national remembrance.
The appearance comes against the backdrop of Fubara's recent return from an overseas trip, the details of which have not been officially disclosed but are speculated to involve consultations related to the state's ongoing crises. Accompanied by his deputy and other top officials, the governor's presence at the service signaled continuity in official duties despite the legislative pressure.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day service provided a solemn and non-partisan setting for the first public sighting of the governor and deputy since the impeachment notice. Photos and videos from the event, widely shared on social media, showed Fubara exchanging pleasantries and participating in the prayers, underscoring a message of national unity and gratitude to the military.
The impeachment saga is part of a prolonged political rift in Rivers State, rooted in disputes over power-sharing, loyalty alignments, and control of state resources. Previous attempts have been stalled by court interventions and political negotiations, but the latest move has reignited debates about the independence of the legislature versus executive stability.
Reactions to the development have been mixed. Supporters of the governor have described the proceedings as unwarranted and politically motivated, while critics argue they reflect necessary accountability. Public figures, including actors and commentators, have weighed in, with some labeling the situation as evidence of unforgiving political vendettas.
As the impeachment process continues—requiring a two-thirds majority vote in the assembly, followed by potential judicial review—the eyes of Rivers indigenes and national observers remain on the state. Governor Fubara's public appearance at the remembrance service, coupled with his call for peace, suggests a strategy of composure and focus on service delivery amid adversity.
The coming days will likely see further statements from both sides, with the assembly awaiting responses from the governor and deputy to the allegations. In the meantime, the solemn commemoration of Nigeria's fallen heroes provided a brief moment of unity in a state grappling with deep political divisions.
