C’River Assembly Suspends Four Councillors for Misconduct

The Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended four councillors from the Akpabuyo Local Government Area due to allegations of gross misconduct. The councillors involved are Innoc Mbukpa, Patrick Eyo, Etim Bassei, Effiom Edet, Tete Oyoyo, and Uben.

The decision to suspend them was made during a plenary session in Calabar, led by Deputy Leader Davi Etta, following complaints from two council members, Emmanuel Archibong and Bassei Ekpo, regarding persistent misconduct. The allegations include molestation, harassment, and aggressive behavior, with claims that the councillors are associated with a secret cult group that intimidates and harasses others.

The situation escalated on March 23, 2026, when one councillor allegedly attacked the council leader and caused injury and property damage. House Leader Franci Bassei Ekpo condemned the actions, emphasizing that public office holders must operate within the law.

The assembly resolved to suspend the councillors pending an investigation by the Judiciary and Public Service Committee, as allowed under Section 14(3) of the Local Government Law.