Chief judge’s leave stalls Rivers state impeachment Process

DDM News

The Chief Judge of Rivers State, Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, has announced a one-year recess leave.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that this decision comes at a critical moment as the state faces a worsening political crisis.

According to DDM, the Chief Judge’s absence will impact the ongoing impeachment threat against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The Chief Judge plays a vital role in the impeachment process, as his authorization is required for key legal steps.

With his leave, the impeachment effort has encountered a serious setback.

A source familiar with the matter disclosed that the Chief Judge wants to protect his professional integrity.

The source, speaking anonymously, stated that he does not want his reputation to be damaged by the ongoing political conflict.

“The Chief Judge has spent years building a career based on fairness and integrity,” the source said.

“He does not want the political turmoil to stain his legacy,” the source added.

The political crisis in Rivers State worsened after a Supreme Court ruling reinstated 27 defected lawmakers.

These lawmakers, formerly People’s Democratic Party (PDP) members, had switched to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The reinstated lawmakers, led by Martins Amaewhule, quickly resumed their legislative activities.

They issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Fubara, demanding he present the 2025 budget or face impeachment proceedings.

Under Nigerian law, the Chief Judge is responsible for approving the establishment of an investigative panel for impeachment.

Without the Chief Judge’s approval, the impeachment process cannot move forward.

This has created a major legal obstacle for the lawmakers pushing for the governor’s removal.

Governor Fubara alone has the authority to appoint an Acting Chief Judge in the absence of the substantive Chief Judge.

Without his approval, the impeachment process cannot proceed under the law.

This situation has placed Fubara in a powerful position.

Analysts believe the Chief Judge’s leave could be a strategic decision to prevent a constitutional crisis.

Given the political tensions in Rivers State, his involvement in the impeachment process could have worsened the situation.

By stepping away, the Chief Judge has effectively delayed any immediate efforts to remove Governor Fubara.

Political observers suggest that this move will significantly impact the balance of power in Rivers State.

Supporters of the reinstated lawmakers argue that the impeachment threat is a necessary response to Governor Fubara’s alleged defiance.

Meanwhile, Fubara’s allies see the impeachment push as an extension of former Governor Nyesom Wike’s influence.

The Chief Judge’s absence has added complexity to the already intense power struggle.

For any further impeachment attempts, an Acting Chief Judge must be appointed by Governor Fubara.

However, analysts believe Fubara will not approve an Acting Chief Judge who might facilitate his removal.

This legal deadlock means the impeachment process is indefinitely stalled.

The Chief Judge’s leave has created a political vacuum, leaving both factions uncertain about their next steps.

His decision underscores the delicate balance of power within the state.

With no immediate pathway to impeachment, Governor Fubara appears to have gained a temporary advantage.

The Chief Judge has not made any public statements beyond confirming his leave.

Many speculate that his decision was influenced by growing political pressures from both factions.

Had he remained in office, he would have faced intense pressure from both sides of the crisis.

The unfolding political drama in Rivers State remains unresolved.

The absence of the Chief Judge has created a significant legal and political challenge for the state.

With the impeachment process stalled, both factions must reconsider their strategies.

The coming months will determine the long-term impact of this unexpected development.

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