By our Reporter
The Legislative Arm of Bekwarra Local Government Area has impeached its chairman, Hon. Theresa Ushie, over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.
Announcing the decision on March 20, 2025, Council Leader Hon. Thompson Inah stated that Ushie’s leadership had hindered development and contradicted Governor Prince Bassey Otu’s “People First” agenda.
The councillors accused Ushie, widely known as the Queen of Bekwarra Nation, of maladministration, financial mismanagement, and governance failures. Specific allegations included lack of transparency in revenue management, unilateral execution of projects, and physical altercations involving her and her family. They also claimed councillors were denied proper office spaces, salaries were routed through an inaccessible bank, and Christmas palliatives meant for residents were mismanaged.
Despite multiple reconciliation attempts, including stakeholder interventions, the chairman allegedly refused to address the grievances. With nine out of ten councillors signing the impeachment, the decision was executed in line with the Cross River State Local Government Law.
A formal notification has been sent to key state officials, including Governor Bassey Otu and Acting Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey.
