Legal representatives supporting Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara have initiated formal steps to recall 26 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, escalating the ongoing political crisis in the state.
The lawyers disclosed that they have written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), requesting access to the voters’ register for the affected constituencies. According to them, the register is required to commence the constitutional process of recalling the lawmakers, whom they accuse of abandoning their legislative responsibilities and acting against the interests of their constituents.
The legal team argued that the lawmakers no longer enjoy the confidence of the people they represent, citing prolonged absence from legislative duties, alleged misconduct, and actions that have contributed to political instability in the state. They maintained that the recall process is a legitimate democratic right available to voters under the constitution and should not be obstructed.
In the letter to INEC, the lawyers reportedly requested certified voter data to enable constituents verify signatures and meet the required threshold to initiate the recall exercise. They stressed that the move is not an attack on democracy but rather an attempt to strengthen accountability and ensure that elected officials remain answerable to the electorate.
The development comes amid heightened tension between Governor Fubara and a faction of lawmakers, a situation that has deeply divided the state’s political landscape. Supporters of the governor have welcomed the move, describing it as a bold step to return power to the people and end what they see as legislative obstruction.
However, critics argue that the recall attempt could further inflame political tensions and distract from governance. They caution that the process must strictly follow legal procedures to avoid constitutional breaches.
INEC has yet to publicly respond to the request, but political observers say its role will be crucial in determining whether the recall process moves forward. As events unfold, the situation is expected to have significant implications for governance, legislative stability, and democratic accountability in Rivers State.