The Cross River State House of Assembly has formally removed the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Theresa Ushie, following confirmed allegations of gross misconduct.
The decision came after lawmakers adopted the findings of the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions during Wednesday’s plenary in Calabar, where 19 out of 25 members voted in favour of her dismissal.
The crisis dates back to June 10, 2025, when eight councillors of the Bekwarra Legislative Council petitioned the Assembly, accusing Ushie of corruption, abuse of office, arbitrary stoppage of salaries of councillors, and violation of due process.
In response, the Assembly suspended her for 90 days and mandated Vice Chairman Egbung Odama to take charge in acting capacity pending completion of the investigation.
Presenting its report, the Committee disclosed that the allegations, contained in a petition dated May 19, 2025, were substantiated through testimonies from petitioners, the suspended chairman, and community stakeholders in Abuochiche.
“After meeting with all parties and reviewing evidence, the Committee found the allegations weighty and clearly established,” the Committee Chairman stated.
Adopting the report, the Assembly resolved to remove Ushie from office with immediate effect.
The lawmakers also directed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) to conduct a bye-election within 30 days to fill the vacant position.
Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to accountability and transparent governance.
“This House will always defend transparency and uphold the law. Our duty is to the people of Cross River State,” he said.
Attempts to reach Ushie for comments were unsuccessful as her phone lines were switched off.
