Chairman of Bekwara local government area of Cross River State, Theresa Ushie has been suspended. Her suspension has already been endorsed by the State House of Assembly. The Vice Chairman of the Council, Hon. Egbung Odama, will serve as the acting Chairman.
Ushie survived an impeachment threat a few weeks back following the intervention of Governor Bassey Otu. However, nine out of ten councillors in a fresh petition, adopted her suspension for three months. They accused her of massive allegations, abuse of power, disconnect, stoppage of councillors’ salaries, among other allegations.
A statement by Gill Nsa, chief press secretary to Gov Bassey Otu, confirmed that the councillors brought their concerns to the State Assembly, as well as to the Governor, his deputy, and the State party chairman. The Councilors had previously attempted to impeach the Chairman three months ago, citing same allegations but the State government intervened.
Governor Otu, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly and the state chairman of the APC met with the Councilors and resolved that the Bekwara LGA Chairman should be suspended for three months.
Nsa explained that the decision was made in accordance with the due process outlined in Section 14 (3) of the Local Government Law 2025 of the State. The State Assembly has set up an investigative committee to look into the allegations raised by the councillors.
