NEWS
“Look beyond his lips, look at his body language, he’s responding with frustration. It’s more like he’s interested in himself and his group, at the expense of the entire Rivers people.” — Jake Epelle Blasts Rivers Lawmakers Over Impeachment Move Against Governor Fubara
Jake Epelle has criticised the impeachment process initiated by the Rivers State House of Assembly against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing the move as driven by frustration and self-interest rather than genuine concern for the welfare of the people of Rivers State.
Speaking during an interview on News Central Television, Epelle analysed the conduct of the lawmakers during the presentation of the impeachment notice, with particular focus on the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule.
According to him, the Speaker appeared visibly angry and emotionally unsettled while reading the notice on the floor of the Assembly.
Epelle said that beyond the words read aloud, Amaewhule’s body language revealed deep frustration, which he attributed to dissatisfaction among some lawmakers who allegedly feel excluded from access to state resources. He suggested that the impeachment move was less about accountability and more about internal grievances and unmet personal or group expectations.
The civil society advocate argued that the lawmakers appeared more concerned with personal and factional benefits than with the collective interests of Rivers people. He questioned the true motive behind the impeachment proceedings, asking whether the actions of the legislators were in service of themselves or the citizens who elected them.
Epelle warned that persistent political battles, power struggles and confrontations within the state’s leadership would have serious consequences for ordinary residents, noting that political instability often translates into stalled governance, economic uncertainty and hardship for the masses.
He also criticised what he described as hypocrisy within the Assembly, expressing surprise that Speaker Amaewhule was now presenting himself as a defender of Rivers State resources.
Epelle noted that similar concerns were not raised during the period of sole administration, which he said allegedly witnessed the loss of state funds without corresponding resistance from the lawmakers.
Epelle’s remarks come amid rising political tension in Rivers State, as the impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara continue to generate widespread debate and concern over governance, stability and the future political direction of the state.