Fear and uncertainty have gripped the 18 local government areas of Cross River State as several chairmen and vice chairmen face threats of suspension or removal amid mounting political tension linked to early permutations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The anxiety 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 impeachment notice, signed by the Leader of the Council, Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, accused Yakubu of gross misconduct, abandonment of duty and other alleged infractions.
The suspension is expected to remain in place pending the outcome of an investigation by the House Committee on Judiciary and Public Service Matters.
Political observers have attributed the growing instability within local government leadership to early political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls. According to analysts, influential political interests may be repositioning local government officials perceived as obstacles to re-election ambitions or succession plans.
Critics have also alleged that councillors are increasingly being used as political tools to initiate impeachment or suspension proceedings against elected council executives.
READ ALSO: Cross River gov’s aides accused in youth’s death, family cries foul
A similar scenario previously played out in Bekwarra Local Government Area, where the State Assembly last year suspended and subsequently removed the elected chairman, Mrs. Theresa Akwaji Ushie, over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office and administrative lapses.
Her removal, which was supported by 19 out of 25 lawmakers, paved the way for her deputy, Hon. Egbung Odama, to assume leadership of the council.
The Bekwarra incident triggered significant legal debate, with prominent legal practitioner and rights activist, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, criticising the Assembly’s decision.
He described the removal as unconstitutional and “null and void,” arguing that state assemblies do not possess the constitutional authority to remove elected local government chairmen. He advised Ushie to seek redress through the courts.
Tensions were also recently reported in Ikom Local Government Area, where the chairman, Pastor Mercy Nsor, was allegedly threatened with suspension following disagreements with some councillors. Although the dispute sparked public outcry, it did not escalate into formal disciplinary action.
Media reports suggested that the State House of Assembly may have indirectly contributed to the crisis in Ikom, allegations that were strongly denied by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem.
Responding through his aide, Matthew Okache, Ayambem dismissed claims that he threatened or attempted to unlawfully suspend the Ikom chairman. He maintained that his involvement was solely aimed at mediating the conflict and promoting stability within the council.
The Speaker also dismissed allegations relating to disputes over the disbursement of N15 million reportedly allocated for councillors’ activities connected to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing the claims as misleading and unfounded.
Meanwhile, the Assembly defended Yakubu’s suspension in Ogoja, stating that the action was carried out in accordance with Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law. The motion for the suspension was moved by the House Leader, Hon. Francis Bassey Asuquo, and seconded by the Deputy Leader, Hon. Davies Etta.
Speaking during plenary, Speaker Ayambem stressed that the Assembly would not tolerate any conduct capable of undermining effective administration at the grassroots level.
He emphasised the importance of due process, accountability and strict adherence to established legal frameworks in the management of local government affairs.
The unfolding political developments have heightened concerns among residents and stakeholders, with many warning that sustained instability within local government leadership could disrupt service delivery and grassroots governance across the state as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.