The Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended four councillors of Akpabuyo Local Government Area for 90 days over alleged gross misconduct.
The affected councillors are Innocent Mbukpa, Patrick Eyo Etim, Bassey Effiom Edet, and Tete Oyoyo Ubene.
The suspension followed a petition by two council members, Emmanuel Archibong and Bassey Ekpo, who accused the councillors of persistent misconduct.
During Wednesday’s plenary in Calabar, Deputy Leader and member representing Abi State Constituency, Davies Etta, said the councillors were “in the habit of molesting, pestering, harassing, and exhibiting aggressive behaviour.”
He said, “The affected councillors used a secret cult group to perpetrate acts of intimidation, including harassment of the Leader of the Legislature, Hon. Ekpo Bassey Ekpo.”
The situation reportedly escalated on March 23, 2026, when the councillors allegedly attacked the council leader and staff, causing injuries and property destruction.
Speaking on the matter, House Leader Francis Bassey condemned the actions, saying the councillors failed to follow due process in addressing their grievances. He emphasised that public office holders must operate within the law.
“Such a violent act attacking a council leader and Staff is highly condemned, because public office holders must operate within the confines of the law,” he added.
Other lawmakers also urged the councillors to seek dialogue and lawful channels rather than resorting to violence.
The Assembly resolved to suspend the councillors pending an investigation by its Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions, and Conflict Resolution.
Lawmakers said the action was in line with Section 14(3) of the Local Government Law, which allows suspension of officials facing allegations of misconduct to facilitate proper investigation.
In his remarks, Speaker Elvert Ayambem expressed concern over the incident and called on political office holders to conduct themselves responsibly. He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to maintaining peace, order, and security in the state.
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