Political instability has gripped Cross River State’s 18 local government councils, as chairmen and vice chairmen face suspension or removal threats amid heightened political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The latest incident occurred on Tuesday when the Cross River State House of Assembly suspended Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, for 90 days. The suspension followed an impeachment notice from the Ogoja Legislative Council, signed by council leader Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, which accused Yakubu of gross misconduct and abandonment of duty.
This action follows a precedent set in Bekwarra Local Government Area, where the State Assembly suspended and later removed elected chairman Theresa Akwaji Ushie last year over similar allegations. Her removal, supported by 19 of 25 lawmakers, elevated her vice chairman, Egbung Odama, to the chairmanship. The move sparked legal controversy, with prominent lawyer Chief Okoi Obono-Obla describing it as “null and void.” He argued that state assemblies lack constitutional authority to directly remove elected local government chairs and urged judicial review.
Tensions have also surfaced in Ikom Local Government Area, where Chairman Pastor Mercy Nsor reportedly faced suspension threats after disputes with councillors. While the situation drew public concern, no formal suspension was enacted. Media reports suggested the State Assembly was involved in fuelling the crisis, a claim strongly denied by Speaker Elvert Ayambem. Through his aide, Matthew Okache, the Speaker stated his interventions were mediatory and dismissed allegations of threatening unlawful suspension. He characterised reports about disputes over a N15 million disbursement for INEC-related activities as misleading.
The Assembly maintains that Yakubu’s suspension in Ogoja complies with Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law. The motion, moved by House Leader Francis Bassey Asuquo and seconded by Deputy Leader Davies Etta, refers the matter to the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Service Matters for investigation.
Speaker Ayambem emphasised during plenary that the Assembly would not tolerate actions undermining local government administration, asserting that due process, accountability, and legal compliance must govern grassroots governance.
Observers link the recurring instability to early political realignments positioning for 2027, with allegations that councillors are being used to target officials perceived as obstacles to re-election or succession plans. The pattern raises questions about the balance of power between state assemblies and local governments, and the potential for constitutional confrontation as Nigeria’s electoral cycle approaches.
