Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has finally addressed the impeachment proceedings initiated against him by the State House of Assembly, clarifying the context behind his earlier remark that some dogs bark without understanding why.
Fubara spoke on the same day his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, reacted to calls for his removal, stating that President Bola Tinubu could only sack him if he was no longer useful to the administration.
This development came as the Rivers State House of Assembly raised concerns over alleged “secret plots” to illegally secure court orders aimed at halting the legislature from performing its constitutional duties.
Why I said dogs are barking – Fubara
Addressing worshippers at a church service held to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at St. Cyprian Anglican Church in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara urged residents to remain calm and assured them that peace would prevail.
He explained that his choice to stay quiet amid distractions was intentional, stressing that his confidence was rooted in his faith in God.
The governor said: “I said something that dogs bark when they don’t understand. Now, see, I think a lot of you don’t understand, and that’s the reason I don’t shout, I don’t complain. I know what I have.
“I know that I have what is supreme and that is God. So, I want everyone to relax. What is important is peace for these dear state and we’ll get it by the special name of God.”
The deputy governor, Professor Odu, in her remarks, thanked attendees for honoring the remembrance event and called on citizens to uphold good conduct. She echoed the sermon of the Anglican Dean, Archbishop Blessing Eyinda, who reminded worshippers that every action would be remembered someday.
She also appealed for continued prayers for the administration, describing them as the backbone of the government’s strength.
FCT Minister rounds off tour
Meanwhile, both Wike and the Speaker of the Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, avoided direct comments on the impeachment saga.
Wike concluded his ‘Thank You’ tour across the state’s 23 local government areas with a rally in his home local government, Obio/Akpor. At the event, he emphasized his identity as a politician, stating that politics was driven by choice and interest.
Tinubu can sack me if he believes I don’t have anything to offer – Wike
Responding to demands for his removal, Wike said it was within President Tinubu’s prerogative to sack him if he deemed it necessary, adding that politics was devoid of sentiment.
He insisted that power was taken, not given, and highlighted Obio/Akpor’s influence in determining political outcomes in Rivers State. He warned critics not to underestimate the political weight of the area.
Wike maintained that President Tinubu understood his value and would not need external pressure to make decisions. He also expressed confidence that Rivers people would reciprocate Tinubu’s goodwill in the 2027 elections.
The minister dismissed claims by supporters of the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, questioning their capacity to deliver votes, and declared that the “Renewed Hope” agenda was firmly rooted in Rivers State.
There’s plot to stop legislative proceedings — Rivers Assembly
In a separate development, the Rivers State House of Assembly alleged attempts by unnamed individuals to illegally obtain court orders to stop legislative proceedings.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Enemi George, the Assembly said intelligence reports indicated plans to secure such orders from courts outside the Port Harcourt judicial division.
The Assembly cited relevant constitutional provisions, including sections 272(3) and 188(10), which limit judicial interference in legislative impeachment processes.
The statement warned those involved to desist from actions that undermine the Constitution and urged affected office holders to formally respond to allegations of gross misconduct rather than resort to unlawful tactics or media attacks.