Political uncertainty is sweeping across all 18 local government councils in Cross River State as chairmen and vice chairmen face suspension or removal threats ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tensions escalated on Tuesday when the Cross River State House of Assembly suspended the Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, for 90 days following an impeachment notice issued by the Ogoja Legislative Council. The notice, signed by council leader Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, cited allegations of gross misconduct, dereliction of duty, and other infractions.
Analysts suggest the growing instability is linked to early political maneuvering, with influential interests reportedly seeking to reposition council officials perceived as obstacles to re-election or succession plans. Councillors are increasingly being deployed as instruments for initiating impeachment or suspension proceedings.
A similar scenario played out in Bekwarra Local Government Area last year, when the State Assembly suspended and subsequently removed elected chairman Mrs. Theresa Akwaji Ushie over allegations of gross misconduct and administrative failures. Her vice, Hon. Egbung Odama, then assumed office after the removal, which was backed by 19 of 25 lawmakers.
The Bekwarra case sparked legal controversy. Prominent lawyer and rights activist, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, criticized the Assembly’s action, calling it “null and void,” and argued that the Constitution does not empower state assemblies to remove elected local government chairmen outright. He encouraged Ushie to pursue judicial redress.
Reports of political tension also emerged from Ikom Local Government Area, where Chairman Pastor Mercy Nsor allegedly faced suspension threats following disagreements with some councillors. Public outcry prevented formal action, though rumors suggested House of Assembly involvement—a claim strongly denied by Speaker Elvert Ayambem.
Through his aide, Matthew Okache, Ayambem dismissed allegations of unlawful interference, insisting his interventions were purely mediatory. He also refuted claims about disputes over the disbursement of N15 million for councillors’ INEC-related activities, calling them misleading.
Regarding Yakubu’s suspension in Ogoja, the Assembly confirmed it was carried out in accordance with Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law. The motion was moved by House Leader Francis Bassey Asuquo and seconded by Deputy Leader Davies Etta, pending investigation by the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Service Matters.
Speaking during plenary, Speaker Ayambem emphasized that the Assembly would not tolerate actions undermining effective local government administration. He called for strict adherence to due process, accountability, and the law to guide governance at the grassroots level.
