By Onwa Ekor
The Cross River House of Assembly has suspended the Chairman of Bekwarra local government area, Hon. Theresa Akwaji Ushie, for a period of 90 days, following a petition by members of the Legislative Council alleging abuse of office.
The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was carried out in accordance with Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law.
During the plenary on Tuesday 10th June, 2025, the Assembly considered and upheld the impeachment notice submitted by eight out of ten councilors from the Bekwarra Legislative Council.
The petition, dated May 19, 2025, accused Ushie of financial misappropriation, administrative highhandedness and gross abuse of power, alleging that she had consistently undermined due process and the rule of law in the discharge of her duties.
In a resolution passed on the floor of the House, the Assembly directed Ushie to step aside for 90 days to allow for an independent investigation into the allegations without interference.
The House further directed the Vice Chairman of Bekwarra local government area, Hon. Egbung Odama, to immediately assume office as Acting Chairman for the duration of the suspension.
His mandate includes ensuring stability and effective running of the council.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, who presided over the session, stated that the Assembly’s action was driven by its commitment for transparency, accountability and good governance at the grassroots level.
He charged House committees on Judiciary and public petition to commence a thorough investigation into the allegations and report their findings within the suspension window.
