Cross River Lawmakers Remove Local Govt Chairman Over Alleged Gross Misconduct

The Cross River State House of Assembly has removed Theresa Ushie, Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, over allegations of gross misconduct.

The latest development follows the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions’ adoption of the investigation report.

Ushie’s removal was approved during Wednesday’s plenary in Calabar, after 19 out of 25 lawmakers voted in favour of the committee’s recommendations, sealing her fate after months of inquiry.

It was learnt that the allegation dates back to June 10, 2025, when the Assembly received a petition from eight councillors of the Bekwarra Legislative Council, accusing the suspended council boss of corruption, abuse of office, arbitrary suspension of councillors’ salaries, and violation of due process in the administration of the council.

Acting on the petition, the Assembly immediately suspended Ushie for 90 days and directed the Vice Chairman, Egbung Odama, to serve in an acting capacity while the committee conducted a full-scale investigation.

Presenting its findings on Wednesday, the Committee Chairman disclosed that the allegations in the petition dated May 19, 2025, were substantiated through engagements with stakeholders in Abuochiche, including the petitioners, the suspended chairman, and community members.

He said, “After meeting with all parties and reviewing evidence, the Committee found the allegations weighty and clearly established.

“The conduct of the chairman fell below the expectations of her office, and the testimonies received during our visit to Bekwarra reinforced the concerns raised.”

Adopting the report, the Assembly resolved to remove Ushie from office for gross misconduct.

The lawmakers further directed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) to conduct a bye-election within 30 days to fill the vacant position and restore normalcy to the council.

In his remarks, Speaker of the House Elvert Ayambem reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to probity and good governance.

He said, “This House will always defend transparency and uphold the law. Our duty guides our actions to the people of Cross River State.”