The Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday commenced fresh moves to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Oduh.
Naijaonpoint reports that lawmakers led by Majority Leader Major Jack levelled eight allegations against Governor Fubara
The Governor was accused of: (1) reckless and unconstitutional expenditure of public funds; (2) unconstitutional misappropriation of public funds; (3) hindering the Rivers State House of Assembly from performing its constitutional duties; (4) illegal appointment of persons without screening by the Assembly as required by the constitution; and (5) seizure of salaries and funds meant for lawmakers.
Other allegations include: (6) seizure of the salary of the Clerk of the House, Emeka Amadi; (7) refusal to implement constitutional provisions on the financial autonomy of the legislature and the judiciary; and (8) withholding of funds meant for the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission, thereby hindering its operations.
Procedure to impeach a governor in Nigeria
1. Notice of allegations
A written notice alleging gross misconduct must be signed by at least one-third (1/3) of the members of the State House of Assembly. The notice is then presented to the Speaker.
2. Service of notice
The Speaker must serve the notice on the Governor within seven days. The notice must clearly outline the specific allegations.
3. Resolution to investigate
Within 14 days of receiving the notice, the House votes on whether to investigate. The motion requires the support of not less than two-thirds (2/3) of all members. If it fails, the process ends immediately.
4. Constitution of an investigation panel
If the motion passes, the Speaker requests the Chief Judge of the State to constitute a seven-member panel. Members must be individuals of unquestionable integrity and must not be politicians or public servants.
5. Investigation by the panel
The panel has three months to investigate the allegations. The Governor has the right to defend himself personally or through lawyers. A fair hearing is mandatory.
6. Panel’s report
The panel submits its findings to the House. If no misconduct is found, the process ends. If misconduct is established, the House proceeds to the next step.
7. Final removal vote
The House must pass a resolution supported by at least two-thirds (2/3) of all members. Once passed, the Governor is immediately removed from office.