Cross River Group Condemns Lawmaker's Reinstatement, Citing Ethical Breach
The Cross River State chapter of the Assembly for Moral Discipline, Justice, and Restoration of Public Confidence has issued a strong condemnation of the reinstatement of Ovat Agbor, the member representing Ovubra 1 State Constituency, by the leadership of the Cross River State House of Assembly. The group has sharply criticized the decision made by Speaker Elvert Ayambem, labeling it as "a serious contradiction to the moral standards expected of public office holders in the state."
Ethical Concerns Raised Over Domestic Violence Allegations
During an interactive session with journalists held in Calabar on Monday, the group's State Publicity Secretary, John Egon, expressed deep concern regarding the circumstances surrounding Agbor's return. Egon highlighted that despite the lawmaker's earlier suspension over allegations of domestic violence against his spouse, he "has been recalled without clear evidence of accountability or justice." This move, according to the group, poses significant risks to public confidence in governance and weakens the ethical foundation that should underpin leadership.
Egon emphasized that "leadership must be anchored on respect for human dignity and the protection of citizens, not fear or coercion." He further argued that any individual who consistently demonstrates disregard for these core values cannot be entrusted with the responsibility of representing the people, describing the alleged conduct as "a grave abuse of office and a betrayal of the trust reposed in him by the people."
Criticism of Speaker's Role and Broader Implications
In a formal statement signed by Egon, the group also directed criticism towards Speaker Ayambem for presiding over and approving the reinstatement. The statement asserted that this action sends a "wrong signal that misconduct can be overlooked," thereby undermining discipline within the legislative arm of government and eroding public trust in the institution. It stressed that "public office is a position of honour that demands integrity, discipline, and a strong moral compass."
The group warned that allowing such conduct to go unchecked "places a dent on the dignity of Cross River State and erodes the moral culture that binds the society together." It noted that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu is widely recognized as one anchored on moral virtues, discipline, and accountability, and should not be undermined by actions that contradict these ideals.
"It is imperative that all arms of government align with these principles to sustain the integrity of the administration," the statement added. "Decisions such as the reinstatement of Agbor risk sending conflicting signals that may weaken the moral direction championed by the present administration."
Calls for Review and Official Response
The group has called upon civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, and women's rights groups to review the circumstances surrounding the lifting of Agbor's suspension to ensure that justice is served. This appeal underscores the broader societal implications of the case and the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
In response, Matthew Okache, the spokesperson for Speaker Ayambem, defended the Assembly's decision, stating that due process was followed before the suspension was lifted. "Agbor's suspension was lifted after he served the term, following the recommendation of a committee set up to review the matter," Okache explained, indicating that procedural steps were taken in accordance with legislative protocols.
This controversy highlights ongoing tensions between ethical governance and political decisions, raising questions about the balance between legal procedures and moral accountability in public office. The situation continues to draw attention from various stakeholders concerned with integrity and justice in Cross River State's political landscape.
