• As Otu urges harmony between council executives and legislators
• Egbung pledges inclusive leadership and swift action on development
In a significant leadership shake-up, Egbung Odama Egbung has been sworn in as the Acting Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area (LGA) following the suspension of the substantive Chairperson, Ms. Theresa Ushie, by the Cross River State House of Assembly.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Calabar, and was officiated by Governor Bassey Otu.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Nsa Gill, the Governor emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual respect among local government chairmen, council legislators, and key stakeholders.
“Our government is rooted in the people-first philosophy. Service delivery must not be compromised by internal disunity. The only card to play is the people’s card. We will not tolerate any action that undermines the welfare of Cross Riverians, not under my watch.” Gov. Otu declared.
The governor, commended performing chairpersons across the state but warned that the government would not hesitate to take decisive action in the face of misgovernance or crisis at the local government level.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, described the development as an opportunity for the former Vice Chairman, now Acting Chairman, to deliver transformational leadership and drive inclusive growth in Bekwarra.
In his first official remarks, Mr. Egbung expressed gratitude to the Governor for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to lead with a sense of duty, fairness, and urgency.
“I thank His Excellency, the People’s First Governor, for this opportunity to serve. I see this not as a promotion, but a call to action. I will immediately convene a stakeholders’ meeting with elders, youth, and market women to build unity and chart a path toward rapid development.” He said.
Meanwhile our correspondent gathered that the leadership transition follows a series of events that began with the impeachment of Ms. Theresa Ushie by councilors of the Bekwarra Legislative Council. A formal petition was subsequently submitted to the State House of Assembly and the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Acting on the petition, the Cross River State House of Assembly passed a resolution suspending Ms. Ushie for a period of 90 days and directed that the Vice Chairman assume office in an acting capacity to avoid a governance vacuum.