The Cross River State House of Assembly has removed the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Theresa Ushie, after finding her guilty of gross misconduct.
Her sack followed the adoption of the report of the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions, which investigated a petition submitted by eight councillors of the Bekwarra Legislative Council.
The petition, received by the Assembly on June 10, 2025, accused Ushie of corruption, abuse of office, stopping councillors’ salaries without justification, and disregarding due process in the running of the council.
The Assembly suspended her for 90 days at the time and directed the Vice Chairman, Egbung Odama, to take over in acting capacity while the committee carried out a full investigation.
During Wednesday’s plenary in Calabar, 19 out of 25 lawmakers voted to adopt the committee’s findings, formally removing her from office after months of inquiry.
The committee chairman said the allegations in the petition dated May 19, 2025, were proven during meetings with stakeholders in Abuochiche. According to him, “After meeting with all parties and reviewing evidence, the Committee found the allegations weighty and clearly established.”
He added that “The conduct of the chairman fell below the expectations of her office, and the testimonies received during our visit to Bekwarra reinforced the concerns raised.”
Following the adoption of the report, the Assembly ordered that Ushie be removed from office for gross misconduct. It also directed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission to organise a bye election within 30 days to fill the vacant seat.
Speaker Elvert Ayambem said the House acted in defence of accountability and good governance. He stated, “This House will always defend transparency and uphold the law. Our duty guides our actions to the people of Cross River State.”
