Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has inaugurated Egbung Odama Egbung as the Acting Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area following the 90-day suspension of the elected chairperson, Mrs. Theresa Amarachi Ushie. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office in Calabar.
Governor Otu emphasized the need for cooperation between the executive and legislative arms at the local government level. He stressed that unity and collaboration are essential for effective governance and for ensuring that the needs of the people are met. He warned that any official failing to serve in the interest of the people would face consequences, in line with his administration’s “People First” agenda.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparent and accountable governance at all levels, noting that while many local government chairpersons have performed commendably, his government will not hesitate to act where necessary in the public’s interest.
Professor Anthony Owan Enoh, Secretary to the State Government, described the transition in Bekwarra as a new beginning and encouraged the acting chairman to take advantage of the opportunity to deliver impactful leadership.
In his remarks, the newly sworn-in acting chairman, Mr. Egbung, expressed gratitude to the governor for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged to carry out his duties with dedication and called on all stakeholders in Bekwarra—elders, youth, and women groups—to unite for the advancement of the local government. He promised to host a stakeholders’ meeting to promote peace and progress.
Mrs. Ushie’s suspension stemmed from a petition submitted by eight out of ten legislative council members in Bekwarra, which led the Cross River State House of Assembly to pass a resolution suspending her and directing the vice chairman to assume the position in an acting capacity.
