The Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Theresa Ushie, for a period of 90 days, following serious allegations of abuse of office and financial misconduct.
A resolution to that effect was passed on Tuesday during plenary in Calabar, according to a statement issued by Matthew Okache, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Assembly. The action, the Assembly stated, was taken in line with Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law.
“In a resolution passed on the floor of the House, the Assembly directed that Hon. Theresa Ushie step aside for 90 days to allow for an independent investigation into the allegations without interference,” the statement read.
The suspension follows a petition submitted by eight out of ten councillors in the Bekwarra Legislative Council. The petition, dated 19 May 2025, accused Hon. Ushie of financial misappropriation, administrative highhandedness, and gross abuse of power. It also alleged that she had consistently disregarded due process and the rule of law in the execution of her official duties.
The Assembly upheld the impeachment notice contained in the petition and subsequently directed the Vice Chairman of Bekwarra, Egbung Odama, to assume office as Acting Chairman. His appointment is to ensure continuity, stability, and effective governance during the suspension period.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, noted that the Assembly’s resolution underscores its commitment to integrity and accountability in local governance.
“I charge the House committees on Judiciary and Public Petition to commence a thorough investigation into the allegations and report their findings within the suspension window,” Ayambem stated.
