By RismadarVoice Media
December 10, 2025
Cross River State House of Assembly has removed the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Theresa Ushie, over allegations of gross misconduct, marking the conclusion of a months-long investigation into her administration.
Her removal followed the adoption of the report of the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Petitions, during plenary on Wednesday, December 10 in Calabar.
Nineteen of the 25 lawmakers voted in favour of the committee’s recommendations, ending Ushie’s tenure.
The probe originated from a petition submitted on June 10, 2025, by eight councillors of the Bekwarra Legislative Council.
Ushie was accused of corruption, abuse of office, arbitrary stoppage of councillors’ salaries and violation of due process in the running of the council.
Following the petition, the Assembly suspended her for 90 days and directed the Vice Chairman, Egbung Odama, to assume office in an acting capacity while the committee commenced a full-scale investigation.
Presenting its findings, the Committee Chairman said the allegations contained in the petition dated May 19, 2025, were substantiated during engagements with stakeholders in Abuochiche, the Bekwarra headquarters.
These included interactions with the petitioners, the suspended chairman, and community members.
“After meeting with all parties and reviewing evidence, the Committee found the allegations weighty and clearly established,” the Chairman said.
“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.”
Adopting the committee’s report, the Assembly resolved that Ushie be removed from office for gross misconduct.
The lawmakers also directed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) to conduct a bye-election within 30 days to fill the vacant position.
In his remarks, Speaker Elvert Ayambem reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to accountability and good governance.
“This House will always defend transparency and uphold the law. Our duty guides our actions to the people of Cross River State,” he said.
Attempts to reach Ushie for comments were unsuccessful, as calls to her phone remained unanswered.
