The Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Chibuzor Simeon Amadi, has declined to constitute a seven-member panel to investigate allegations of gross misconduct levelled against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Ngozi Ordu, citing subsisting court orders restraining such action.
Justice Amadi made his position known in a letter dated January 20, 2026, and addressed to the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule. In the letter, the Chief Judge explained that his decision was guided strictly by the rule of law and respect for judicial authority.
According to him, two separate court orders currently bar him from receiving, processing, forwarding or acting on any request to set up an investigative panel in respect of the allegations against the governor and his deputy. He disclosed that the orders were served on his office on January 16, 2026, and remain valid and binding until set aside by a competent court.
Justice Amadi stressed that constitutionalism demands strict obedience to court orders by all authorities and persons, regardless of any personal or institutional disagreement with such orders.
“The rule of law requires absolute compliance with subsisting court orders until they are vacated or overturned by a court of competent jurisdiction,” the Chief Judge stated.
To reinforce his position, Justice Amadi referenced judicial precedents, recalling a similar incident in 2007 involving the Chief Judge of Kwara State. In that case, the Chief Judge was faulted for ignoring a restraining court order and proceeding to constitute an investigative panel. The action was subsequently nullified by the Court of Appeal, which held that the panel was unlawfully constituted.
The Rivers State Chief Judge further noted that the Speaker of the House of Assembly has already filed an appeal against the restraining orders at the Court of Appeal. He said this development further complicates the matter and places it firmly within the jurisdiction of the appellate court.
He therefore advised that all parties allow the ongoing judicial processes to run their full course in the interest of justice, peace and constitutional order in the state.
The decision adds another layer to the deepening political and legal tensions in Rivers State, as the controversy surrounding the alleged misconduct and the impeachment process continues to generate national attention.
By Nzeuzor Jane and Maduadugwo Jane, Port-Harcourt
