Cross River Assembly sacks LG chairman over misconduct

The members of the Cross River State House of Assembly have sacked Theresa Ushie as the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area of the state.

Ushie’s removal followed the Assembly’s adoption of the report of its committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

19 out of 25 lawmakers voted in favour of Ushie’s removal over allegations of misconduct and administrative recklessness.

The Assembly had, on June 10, received a petition from eight councillors from the council who alleged issues of misconduct against the chairman.

The councillors accused the chairman of corruption, misuse of authority, stoppage of salaries, and violation of due process.

The Assembly suspended Ushie for 90 days, and directed the vice chairman, Egbung Odama, to take charge of the council’s administration.

‘Political puppets’: PDP threatens legal action against defected Rivers lawmakers

Meanwhile, the house committee report stated that the petition against Ushie raised serious concerns about financial misconduct in the council’s administration.

The committee added that the allegations were substantiated through a rigorous investigation process.

The lawmakers, therefore, directed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct a bye-election within 30 days to fill the vacancy.

The Speaker, Elvert Ayambem, reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to accountability and transparency.

Ayambem said the lawmakers would continue to uphold the law and protect the interests of Cross River State and its people.

The Star