Just In: Local Govt Chairman Impeached in Cross River

Admin March 20, 2025

Hon. Theresa Ushie

 The Legislative arm of Bekwarra Local Government Council has unanimously resolved to impeach the Council Chairman, Hon. Theresa Akwaji Ushie. The decision, announced on March 20th, 2025, comes after a series of allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of public office.


According to a statement released by the Council Leader, Hon. Thompson Inah, the impeachment was necessitated by the Chairman's alleged mismanagement of public funds, lack of transparency, and high-handedness, which have reportedly stifled the development of Bekwarra Council. The councillors also accused Hon. Ushie of compromising the development agenda of the Peoples First Mantra, a key policy of the administration of Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu.


The impeachment notice, signed by nine out of the ten councillors representing the 10 wards of Bekwarra Council, outlines several serious allegations against the Chairman, including:


1. Financial Secrecy: No revenue updates have been shared with councillors since her inauguration.

2. Lack of Transparency: The Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) processes are opaque, bypassing legislative oversight.

3. Unilateral Projects: Roads were hurriedly graded and boreholes drilled without input from councillors or stakeholders, raising concerns about personal interests.

4. Communication Breakdown: No meetings have been held between the executive and legislative arms since inauguration.

5. Harassment and Abuse: Councilors have faced harassment and intimidation, including physical assaults by the Chairman's brothers.

6. Banking Favoritism: Forced opening of accounts with a bank that has no branch in Cross River State, making it difficult for councillors to access their salaries.

7. Misallocation of Palliatives: Only 40 bags of rice were distributed per ward during Christmas, compared to 120 bags allocated from the state.

8. Inadequate Facilities: Councilors lack proper offices and chambers to function effectively.

9. Reconciliation Snubbed: The Chairman refused to attend reconciliation meetings, further escalating tensions.

10. Lack of Concern for Party Members: The Chairman has shown indifference to the loss or demise of party faithful, referring such matters to the party.


The impeachment notice, in accordance with the provisions of the Cross River State Local Government Law (Part II, Section 12, Subsection (1) and (2)), was signed by nine councillors, including Hon. Thompson Inah (Ukpah Ward), Hon. Ejugu Godwin Odey (Gakem Ward), and Hon. Okaba Phillip Ogar (Abuochiche Ward), among others.