The impeachment proceedings against Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, have met a significant hurdle as four members of the State House of Assembly have publicly withdrawn their support for the process. This development comes after two initial lawmakers stepped back, followed by two more within a 48-hour period, intensifying calls for a peaceful resolution to the state's political crisis.

Barile Nwakoh, representing Khana Constituency I, and Emilia Amadi of Obio/Akpor Constituency II, were the latest to announce their withdrawal. Their decision was made less than 48 hours after the Minority Leader, Sylvanus Nwankwo of Omuma Constituency, and Peter Abbey of Degema Constituency, had similarly distanced themselves from the impeachment effort. These four lawmakers were among the 26 who initially endorsed the notice of alleged gross misconduct against the governor and his deputy.

While acknowledging that the governor and his deputy might have breached certain constitutional provisions, the withdrawing lawmakers emphasized that their change of position was influenced by appeals from respected leaders and stakeholders within the state. They stressed the importance of restraint and dialogue in the interest of peace and stability, preferring a peaceful resolution over a prolonged impeachment process. This growing support for dialogue within the Assembly suggests a shift away from confrontation.

The initial notice of impeachment was reportedly issued on Thursday, January 8, by the 26 lawmakers, who are said to be loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, citing "breaches of the constitution." With four members now having withdrawn their support, the dynamics within the Assembly are clearly shifting.

Sources within the Assembly suggest that all nine opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers and some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) might eventually align with a pro-Fubara bloc in the House to protect the administration.

As political maneuvering and behind-the-scenes negotiations intensify, the Rivers State House of Assembly is expected to reconvene on January 15, 2026. Attention is now keenly focused on how the leadership will navigate these widening divisions within the chamber.

In a related development, the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers has actively intervened in the crisis. They have formed a nine-member committee tasked with mediating in the ongoing political imbroglio. The committee is chaired by His Majesty, (Dr) Suanu T. Y. Baridam, with His Majesty, Eze Barr. Nwachukwu Nnam Obi, serving as co-chairman. Other distinguished members include His Majesty Eze Uchechukwu Isaiah-Elikwu, His Majesty Eze Leslie Eke, His Majesty Dr Samuel Amaechi, His Majesty Dr Felix Otuwarikpo, His Majesty Eze Barr. Onyekachi Amaonwu, HRH King Agolia Aboko, and HRH Eze Nwankwo Nwankwo, with Barrister Darlington Owiriwa acting as secretary.

The chairman of the council, His Majesty Eze Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, the Eze Oha Apara IV of Apara Kingdom, issued a circular urging all factions, social media users, and the general public to exercise restraint in their comments and actions. This appeal aims to prevent the escalation of tensions and maintain public peace in the state.