Cross River Assembly Approves Two-Week Leave Extension for Gov. Otu, Lifts Councilor’s Suspension

 

The Cross River State House of Assembly, during Thursday’s plenary, granted Governor Sen. Bassey Edet Otu an additional two-week leave extension following a formal request from the Governor. Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey will continue to oversee state affairs in an acting capacity until Governor Otu’s return.  

The Governor’s request, read on the floor by the Clerk of the House, received unanimous approval from lawmakers. The extension comes amid ongoing efforts by the Governor to “refuel and re-energize” for state duties, according to Assembly leadership.  

In a separate resolution, the Assembly lifted the suspension of the Councilor representing Ajassor Ward in Etung Local Government Area, who was barred months ago over allegations of misconduct. The reversal followed recommendations by the House Committee on Local Government, which reviewed the case and cleared the councilor of wrongdoing.  

 

Lawmakers also turned their attention to the plight of Cross River’s forest rangers, urging the state government to expedite payment of nine months’ outstanding salaries and entitlements. The rangers, recruited to combat illegal logging and protect biodiversity in the state’s reserves, have worked without remuneration since their employment.  

A motion condemning the delay, widely supported during the session, called on the Ministry of Climate Change and Forestry and the Office of the Accountant General to resolve the issue “without further delay.” Legislators emphasized the rangers’ critical role in preserving forests and warned that neglecting their welfare could undermine environmental security.  

In his remarks, Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem reaffirmed the Assembly’s dedication to transparency and citizen welfare, stating that the resolutions reflect the people’s priorities. “Our decisions today are in the best interest of Cross Riverians. We must support our Governor as he refuels to move the state forward, uphold fairness in local governance, and ensure those safeguarding our forests are not neglected,” he said.  

Ayambem added that the House would continue to prioritize justice and accountability in fulfilling its constitutional duties.  

The plenary adjourned with a directive for relevant agencies to report back on progress concerning the rangers’ payments.