There was a twist to the political crisis in Rivers on Monday as lawmakers in the oil-rich state accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy Ngozi Odu of gross misconduct.
In a notice made available to the media, the lawmakers said the action was “in compliance with Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and other extant laws”.
The notice read, “In compliance with Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and other extant laws, we the undersigned members of the Rivers State House of Assembly hereby forward to you a Notice of Gross Misconduct by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State in the performance of the functions of her office.”
Furthermore, Fubara was accused of reckless and unconstitutional expenditure of public funds, hindering or obstructing the Rivers State House of Assembly which is another arm of the government, and the appointment of persons to occupy offices/positions in the Rivers State Government without allowing for the requirement of screening and confirmation.
Odu, on the other hand, was accused of conniving with the governor to commit the atrocities.
In line with the constitution, Fubara was issued a 14-day ultimatum to reply to the notice.
