By Itam Offor
The Cross River State House of Assembly Member representing Yakurr State Constituency, Hon Cyril James Omini has been reinstated as Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation.
Speaking during plenary, on Tuesday, the Speaker of the Assembly, Hon Elvert Ayambem emphasised that Hon Omini was exonerated from all allegations earlier levelled against him which led to an investigation by the House.
“Following the vindication of Hon Cyril James Omini from the allegations levelled against him, the House hereby reinstates him as Chairman, Committee on Finance and Appropriation”. Ayambem stated.
The Speaker further referred the 2026 Appropriation Bill, which recently scaled second reading on the floor of the Assembly, to the Committee on Finance and Appropriation for further legislative procedures.
He urged the Committee to expedite action by engaging Ministries, Departments and Agencies ( MDAs) for the defence of their budgets so as to enhance early passage of the Appropriation Bill.
Responding, Hon Omini thanked the Speaker and Members for restoring him as Chairman of the Appropriation Committee.
Speaking to journalists after plenary, Omini lauded the House for the proactive manner that they handled the investigation of the allegations earlier levelled against him.
He expressed appreciation for the confidence that the House has reposed on him while promising to fast track the budget defence process to enhance a speedy passage of the 2026 budget.
Omini further commended the State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu on his presentation of the 2026 budget of “Inclusive Growth” which he described as realistic and achievable.
He hinted that his Committee will engage with different sectors to ensure that areas of need are adequately captured in the 2026 Budget to enhance even distribution of developmental projects across the State.
