The Cross River State House of Assembly has come under heavy criticism following the reinstatement of a suspended lawmaker, Hon. Ovat Agbor, who represents Obubra 1 State Constituency.
Agbor, who was initially suspended on March 5, 2026, over allegations of domestic violence against his spouse, was reinstated on April 9. The decision has since sparked outrage among civil society groups, who argue that due process was not properly followed.
One of such groups, the Assembly for Moral Discipline, Justice, and Restoration of Public Confidence, strongly condemned the move, accusing the leadership of the House of undermining ethical standards in governance. The group specifically faulted the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, for approving the reinstatement.
Speaking in Calabar on Monday, the group’s State Publicity Secretary, Dr. John Egon, said recalling the lawmaker without clear evidence of accountability sends a dangerous message.
“Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the lawmaker has been reinstated without transparency or justice. This risks eroding public trust and weakening the moral foundation expected of leadership,” Egon said.
He further described the alleged conduct as a betrayal of public trust, stressing that individuals who disregard human dignity should not hold public office.
In a statement signed by Egon, the group warned that the decision could diminish confidence in the legislative arm and damage the state’s reputation. It added that public office requires integrity, discipline, and accountability, values it believes were compromised in this case.
The group also noted that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu is widely regarded for promoting discipline and moral standards, cautioning that the reinstatement could send conflicting signals.
It called on civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, and women’s rights advocates to scrutinise the circumstances surrounding the lawmaker’s recall to ensure justice is served.
However, the Speaker’s office has dismissed the criticism. The Speaker’s spokesperson, Mr. Matthew Okache, maintained that due process was followed, stating that Agbor’s suspension was lifted after he served his term and following the recommendation of a committee set up to investigate the matter.
The controversy continues to generate debate over accountability and ethical leadership in public office.
