By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Four members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who had publicly withdrawn from impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara have abruptly reversed their position, declaring renewed support for the process.

The lawmakers announced their U-turn during a live broadcast on Friday, just days after advocating for dialogue to resolve the state’s deepening political crisis. Their reversal signals a significant shift in the dynamics within the Assembly.

The impeachment move, initiated last week by Speaker Martin Amaewhule’s leadership, targets both Governor Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, over allegations of gross misconduct. Key charges include the unauthorized demolition of the state Assembly complex and the alleged diversion of public funds without legislative approval.

In a surprising development earlier this week, the four legislators had distanced themselves from the process, calling for reconciliation between Monday and Wednesday. Their withdrawal had cast doubt on the momentum of the impeachment effort, speculation that grew when the Assembly failed to reconvene for a scheduled plenary on Thursday.

However, during Friday’s broadcast, pro-impeachment members insisted the process was “constitutional” and the necessary solution to the political impasse. With the four members now reaffirming their support, the drive to impeach the governor appears to have regained critical momentum within the divided House.

The House of Representatives Minority Caucus commemorate with Nigerians on 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, says their sacrifices cannot be forgotten.

This was contained in a commemorative message signed on behalf of the caucus leadership by the Minority Leader, Rep Kingsley Ogundu Chinda stating that:

“Today, the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives joins the rest of the nation in solemn reflection as we honour the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering patriotism of the gallant men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces (past and present) who laid down their lives in defence of our country.

“On this Armed Forces Remembrance Day, we remember with deep gratitude those who paid the ultimate price to preserve Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity, and democratic ideals.

“Their selfless service, often rendered in the face of grave danger and personal loss, remains a powerful reminder that our freedoms were hard-won and must never be taken for granted.

“We also salute our wounded heroes and veterans whose sacrifices did not end on the battlefield, as well as the families of fallen soldiers who continue to bear the pain of loss with quiet strength and dignity.

” Your resilience embodies the true spirit of national service, and the nation owes you an enduring debt of gratitude.

“As a Caucus, we reaffirm our commitment to the welfare of members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their families.

“This includes sustained advocacy for improved welfare packages, adequate equipment, mental health support, timely pensions, and the fulfilment of all statutory obligations owed to those who have served our nation with honour.

“At a time when our country continues to confront security challenges, we urge renewed national unity, responsible leadership, and collective resolve to support our Armed Forces, not only in words, but through concrete policies and actions that strengthen morale, accountability, and professionalism within the security sector.

“May the souls of our fallen heroes rest in perfect peace. May their sacrifices continue to inspire us to work tirelessly for a safer, more just, and more united Nigeria.

“We remember. We honour. We will never forget.

By Abbas Yushau Yusuf

A Professor of Mass Communication at Bayero University Kano, Nura Ibrahim, has urged online journalists to ensure responsible online engagement and respect privacy in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Prof. Nura stated this while presenting a paper at the two-day retreat organized for the Kano Online Media Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, held in Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State.

The retreat, sponsored by the Kano State Government through the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, engaged online journalists on a wide range of topics to improve their capacity under the theme “Strengthening Digital Journalism Through Ethical Practice and Responsible Online Engagement.”

Prof. Nura Ibrahim, of the Department of Information and Media Studies, Faculty of Communication, Bayero University, said online journalists should ensure balance in their reportage and avoid inflammatory language.

He also charged them to promote inclusivity, ensure cultural and religious sensitivity, avoid incitement, verify facts before publication, correct errors, and update content appropriately.

The university professor further urged them to combat misinformation, explain facts as they are, provide credible sources, avoid spreading rumors, and adopt language optimization tools alongside responsible SEO practices.