Cross River Assembly Removes Bekwarra LG Chairman Theresa Ushie Over Gross Misconduct
The Cross River State House of Assembly has officially removed Theresa Ushie, Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, following allegations of gross misconduct. The decision came after the Assembly adopted the report of its Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions. The matter dates back to June 10, 2025, when eight Bekwarra councillors petitioned the Assembly, accusing Ushie of corruption, abuse of office, arbitrary suspension of councillors’ salaries, and violations of due process in council administration. In response, the Assembly initially suspended Ushie for 90 days and appointed Vice Chairman Egbung Odama as acting chairman while a full investigation was conducted. Ushie’s removal was confirmed during Wednesday’s plenary in Calabar, with 19 of the 25 lawmakers voting in favor of the committee’s recommendations, ending months of inquiry. The committee chairman explained that their investigations, which included consultations with the petitioners, Ushie, and community stakeholders in Abuochiche, substantiated the allegations. “After meeting with all parties and reviewing evidence, the committee found the allegations weighty and clearly established. The conduct of the chairman fell below the expectations of her office, and testimonies received during our visit reinforced the concerns raised,” he said.