CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Otu, has sworn in Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung as the Acting Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area.
The swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday, 16th June 2025, at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s Office, following the recent suspension of the substantive chairman by the Cross River State House of Assembly.
Governor Otu, while administering the oath of office, urged the newly sworn-in Acting Chairman to promote peace, unity and development across the local government.
He called on all stakeholders and political actors in Bekwarra to work together in the interest of the people, reiterating his administration’s unwavering commitment to the “People First Agenda.”
The governor said, “This is a time for collaboration, not division. I urge all stakeholders in Bekwarra to put aside differences and work with the acting chairman to move the local government forward.”
Hon. Egbung, who was the Vice Chairman of the council, assumes the position in an acting capacity following the suspension of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Theresa Ushie, by the State House of Assembly for an initial period of 90 days (three months).
The suspension came after the Bekwarra Legislative Council levelled allegations against the executive chairman, prompting the Assembly to order an investigation.
Pending the outcome of the inquiry, Hon. Egbung will oversee the affairs of the local government.
Governor Otu further reaffirmed his trust in due process, stating that the ongoing investigation will be fair and thorough while ensuring stability in the administration of Bekwarra LGA.
The ceremony was attended by top government functionaries, political leaders from Bekwarra, and members of the State Executive Council.
