Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara has dismissed the ongoing impeachment proceedings against him and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, as a “love letter,” downplaying the notice from the Rivers State House of Assembly while reaffirming his commitment to governance and peace.
Speaking as the special guest at the grand finale of the 2026 Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament (organized by the Nigeria Ports Authority and held over the past week in Port Harcourt) on Saturday, January 17, 2026, Governor Fubara addressed the political tension for the first time publicly. He described the impeachment notice—issued last Thursday and forwarded to the State Chief Judge to constitute a seven-man investigative panel over alleged gross misconduct—as merely a “love letter.”
The governor lamented the recurring pattern of political crises coinciding with the annual polo event over the past three years: “It is really unfortunate that each time you are having your tournament, there is always one problem. In 2024, you came to me and made some promises, but that January was hell. In 2025, you didn’t bother to come to me. This 2026, which I thought would be the finest, just landed me a love letter.”
Despite the challenge, Fubara insisted: “What is important is that I am still the Governor of Rivers State, and we will continue to do what we have promised the Rivers people.” He emphasized that protecting lives and property remains his administration’s top priority, pledging not to support any action that could undermine peace or security in the state.
Fubara highlighted the successful, incident-free conduct of the week-long tournament as proof of the state’s stability, making it safe for residents, visitors, and investors. He expressed appreciation to the Port Harcourt Polo Club (noting its reputation for one of the country’s best natural grass pitches) and promised government support to upgrade its status. He also urged participants—including international players from Argentina and India, as well as the Argentine Ambassador to Nigeria—to enjoy Port Harcourt’s serenity and counter negative narratives about the state with positive experiences.
The impeachment move, the third attempt since Fubara took office in 2023, stems from longstanding tensions between the governor and a faction of the House of Assembly (aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike).
The Assembly claims gross misconduct, including issues related to budget presentation and governance. However, a Rivers State High Court issued an interim injunction on January 16, 2026, restraining the Chief Judge from acting on the notice pending further hearings (adjourned to January 23, 2026). Despite this, the Assembly has insisted the process will continue, while a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state has criticized the move and called for compliance with the court order.
Fubara’s lighthearted yet firm response signals resilience amid the crisis, focusing on service delivery rather than escalation. The situation remains fluid, with legal proceedings ongoing and political stakeholders watching closely ahead of future elections.
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