Rivers CJ blocks House of Assembly panel on Governor Fubara impeachment, citing existing High Court injunctions

The Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Chibuzor Simeon Amadi, has declined to constitute a seven-member panel requested by the Rivers State House of Assembly to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu.

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The development was confirmed on Thursday, January 21, 2026, following the release of a leaked letter from the Chief Judge.

Justice Amadi stated that he was legally restrained from acting on the request due to subsisting interim injunctions issued by the High Court on 16 January 2026 in two separate suits filed by the governor and his deputy.

The court orders barred the Chief Judge from receiving, processing, considering, or acting on any impeachment-related communication from the House of Assembly pending further determination of the cases.

In the letter, Justice Amadi noted that he had been listed as the 32nd defendant in the suits and that the injunctions had been formally served on his office.

He emphasised the supremacy of constitutionalism and the rule of law, insisting that all authorities must adhere to court orders until they are set aside.

The Chief Judge further acknowledged that the House of Assembly and the Speaker have approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the injunctions.

He stated that he would only act on the requests if the appellate court vacates the orders.

Legal experts have described the matter as a significant test of judicial oversight and legislative authority in Nigeria, highlighting the balance between constitutional safeguards and political accountability.

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The situation continues to draw national attention, with implications for governance and the separation of powers in Rivers State.