The Cross River State House of Assembly voted to remove Theresa Ushie, Chairman of the Bekwarra Local Government Council, from office after allegations of gross misconduct were substantiated. The decision followed the adoption of a report by the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions, which confirmed claims of corruption, abuse of office, and violation of due process.
The investigation began on 10 June 2025, when the Assembly received a petition from eight councillors of the Bekwarra Legislative Council. The petitioners accused Ushie of arbitrarily stopping councillors’ salaries and mismanaging the council. In response, the Assembly suspended Ushie for 90 days and appointed Vice Chairman Egbung Odama as acting chairman.
After a thorough inquiry, the committee presented its findings to the Assembly, showing that the allegations were supported by evidence. The committee’s chairman noted that Ushie’s conduct fell short of expectations and that testimonies from stakeholders in Abuochiche reinforced the concerns. Upon reviewing the evidence, 19 of the 25 lawmakers voted in favour of the committee’s recommendations, leading to Ushie’s removal.
Ushie’s removal marks a significant step in promoting transparency and accountability in local government administration in Cross River State. The decision demonstrates the Assembly’s commitment to addressing misconduct and upholding high standards of integrity for public officials. It also underscores the importance of effective oversight mechanisms in preventing corruption and abuse of power.
The House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions played an instrumental role in investigating the allegations and presenting its findings, thereby advancing accountability and good governance in the state. With Ushie removed, the Bekwarra Local Government Council will now be led by acting chairman Egbung Odama until further notice. This development is expected to affect the council’s administration and service delivery to the local community, and observers will watch how the new leadership addresses the council’s challenges and promotes the welfare of the people of Bekwarra.
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