The Cross River State House of Assembly on Wednesday removed the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Theresa Ushie, after months of inquiry into allegations of misconduct. The decision was taken during a plenary session in Calabar where lawmakers adopted the findings of the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions.
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The matter began on June 10, 2025, when eight councillors from the Bekwarra Legislative Council submitted a petition accusing Ushie of corruption, abuse of office, stopping councillors’ salaries without reason, and failing to follow due process in running the council. Following the petition, the Assembly suspended her for 90 days and directed the Vice Chairman, Egbung Odama, to take charge while a full investigation was carried out.
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During its investigation, the committee met with the petitioners, the suspended chairman, and community members in Abuochiche. After reviewing testimonies and documents, the committee concluded that the allegations were proven and that Ushie failed to act in line with the duties of her office.
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With 19 of 25 lawmakers voting in favour of the committee’s recommendations, the Assembly approved her removal from office. The lawmakers also instructed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct a bye-election within 30 days to fill the vacant position and restore leadership to the council.
The Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, restated the commitment of the legislature to lawful conduct and accountability, noting that the Assembly would always act in line with its duty to the people of the state.
Attempts to reach Ushie for comment were not successful, as her mobile lines were unreachable.
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