Cross River Assembly Suspends Bekwarra LG Chairman For Three Months Over Corruption Allegations
The Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Theresa Ushie, for three months over allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and withholding councillors’ salaries.
The decision follows a formal petition signed by nine out of ten councillors in the council. The petition, which initially led to an impeachment move three months ago, was later escalated to the State Assembly and top government officials, including Governor Bassey Otu, his deputy, and the APC state chairman, after the situation remained unresolved.
After reviewing the petition and consulting with key stakeholders, the Assembly, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, resolved to suspend Hon. Ushie under Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law 2025.
“After considering the allegations and discussions with all parties, the House resolved that a three-month suspension is necessary to allow for proper investigation and to maintain the integrity of local governance,” Speaker Ayambem announced.
In the meantime, Vice Chairman Hon. Egbung Odama has been directed to serve as Acting Chairman.
An investigative committee has also been set up by the House to probe the allegations against Hon. Ushie and report its findings before the suspension period elapses.
