The Cross River State House of Assembly has voted to remove the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Theresa Ushie, from office due to allegations of gross misconduct. This decision was made after the adoption of a report by the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions, which substantiated claims of corruption, abuse of office, and violation of due process.

The investigation began on June 10, 2025, when the Assembly received a petition from eight councillors of the Bekwarra Legislative Council. The petitioners accused Ushie of arbitrary stoppage of councillors’ salaries and mismanagement of the council. In response, the Assembly suspended Ushie for 90 days and appointed the Vice Chairman, Egbung Odama, as acting chairman.

Following a thorough investigation, the committee presented its findings to the Assembly, revealing that the allegations against Ushie were supported by evidence. The committee’s chairman stated that the suspended chairman’s conduct fell short of expectations and that testimonies from stakeholders in Abuochiche reinforced the concerns raised. After reviewing the evidence, 19 out of 25 lawmakers voted in favour of the committee’s recommendations, leading to Ushie’s removal.

The removal of Ushie from office is a significant development in the ongoing efforts to promote transparency and accountability in local government administration in Cross River State. The decision demonstrates the Assembly’s commitment to addressing allegations of misconduct and ensuring that public officials are held to high standards of integrity.

The investigation and subsequent removal of Ushie also highlight the importance of effective oversight mechanisms in preventing corruption and abuse of power. The role of the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions in investigating the allegations and presenting its findings to the Assembly has been instrumental in promoting accountability and good governance in the state.

With Ushie’s removal, the Bekwarra Local Government Council will now be led by the acting chairman, Egbung Odama, until further notice. The development is expected to have implications for the administration of the council and the delivery of services to the local community. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the new leadership will address the challenges facing the council and promote the welfare of the people of Bekwarra.