By CHRISTIAN NJOKU

The Cross River House of Assembly (CRHA) on Wednesday suspended four councillors of Akpabuyo Legislative Council for 90 days over alleged gross misconduct.

The suspended councillors include Mr Innocent Mbukpa, Mr Patrick Etim, Mr Bassey Edet and Mr Tete Ubene.

The House reached the decision during plenary after considering a petition by two councillors, Mr Emmanuel Archibong and Mr Bassey Ekpo, alleging harassment, intimidation and aggressive conduct by the affected councillors.

The petition, read by Dr Davies Etta, Deputy Leader of the house, alleged that the councillors used cult groups to intimidate colleagues, including Mr Ekpo Ekpo, the leader of Association of Councillors.

It further alleged that they also attacked council staff on March 23, 2026, causing injuries and damage to the council property.

Speaking on the matter, Mr Francis Asuquo, Member, representing Odukpani State Constituency, condemned the actions of the councillors, noting that “they failed to follow due process in expressing their grievances.”

Other lawmakers stressed the need for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, describing the alleged conduct as unacceptable.

They cited Section 14(3) of the Local Government Law, empowering the Assembly to suspend officials facing misconduct allegations.

The House agreed that the suspension would remain, pending investigation by its Committee on Judiciary, Public Service, Petitions and Conflict Resolution.

On his part, the Speaker of the assembly, Mr Elvert Ayambem expressed concern over the incident and urged public office holders to uphold discipline and the rule of law. (NAN)

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