The Cross River State House of Assembly has endorsed the suspension of Theresa Ushie, chairman of Bekwara Local Government Area, following serious allegations of corruption and abuse of power.
During the three-month suspension period, Vice Chairman Hon. Egbung Odama will serve as the acting Chairman of the council.
Allegations Against the Chairman
Nine out of ten councillors submitted a petition leading to Ushie's suspension. The allegations against her include abuse of power, disconnect from council affairs, and stoppage of councillors' salaries, among other serious claims.
According to Gill Nsa, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu, the councillors had previously attempted to impeach the Chairman three months ago citing the same allegations, but the State government intervened at that time.
Government Intervention
The councillors brought their concerns to multiple authorities, including the State Assembly, the Governor, his deputy, and the State party chairman. Following these complaints, Governor Otu, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, and the state chairman of the APC met with the Councillors to address the situation.
Nsa explained that the decision to suspend Ushie was made in accordance with the due process outlined in Section 14 (3) of the Local Government Law 2025 of the State.
The State Assembly has now established an investigative committee to thoroughly examine the allegations raised by the councillors against the suspended chairman.
This suspension marks a significant development in local governance in Cross River State, highlighting the increasing scrutiny on public officials regarding accountability and transparency in the management of local government resources.
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