Cross River State lawmakers have removed the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Hon Theresa Ushie, after adopting the findings of the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions. Nineteen of the twenty-five members present supported the decision during today’s sitting.
The matter began in June when eight councillors petitioned the Assembly over alleged irregularities in the council. Hon Ushie was placed on a ninety-day suspension while the Committee carried out a full inquiry. The petition, dated May 19, accused her of corruption, abuse of authority, halting councillors’ salaries, and running the council without regard for established procedures.
The Committee reported that it met the petitioners, the suspended chairman, and other stakeholders in Abuochiche, and found the allegations well supported. Testimonies from community members added weight to the claims.
The House agreed with the Committee’s recommendation and removed Hon Ushie for gross misconduct. It also directed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct a bye-election within thirty days.
The Speaker, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem, said the Assembly would continue to uphold accountability and protect the interests of the state.
