PRESS RELEASE BY THE RIVERS ELDERS AND LEADERSHIP FORUM
The Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum expresses deep concern and unequivocal condemnation of the recent impeachment notice issued against Governor Sir Sim Fubara and his deputy Prof. Ngozi Ordu by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Impeachment is a serious constitutional process, not a tool for political vendettas or factional struggles. The reasons so far advanced in support of this action are disturbingly weak, lacking substance, public interest justification, or constitutional weight. They appear driven by narrow personal interests rather than genuine concern for good governance.
The Forum reminds the Rivers State House of Assembly that the Governor’s mandate was freely given by the people of Rivers State and can only be questioned in strict compliance with constitutional provisions, due process, and on the basis of clear, compelling, and verifiable grounds.
We warn that the current course of action risks deepening political divisions, eroding public trust in democratic institutions, and further destabilising an already fragile polity.
Rivers State has not fully recovered from the political, social, and institutional disruptions of the recent period of emergency rule. Our people continue to bear the consequences of that episode, and this development, so early in the year, risks reopening old wounds and heightening tensions at a time when stability and focused governance are urgently needed.
Accordingly, we call on the Rivers State House of Assembly to immediately retrace its steps and place the collective interest, peace, and progress of Rivers State above all partisan or personal considerations.
The Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum remains firmly committed to peace, unity, justice and constitutional democracy in Rivers State. We will not be silent in the face of any action that threaten the stability, dignity, and future of our state.
Let wise counsel prevail.
Let Rivers State heal.
Let Rivers State move forward.
Signed:
His Excellency, Alabo Dr. G. T. G. Toby, KSC, DSSRS, JP
Former Deputy Governor, Rivers State
Ag. Chairman, Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum
January 9, 2026
