@Ota Udeh
@Asuquo Cletus
The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, has come under criticism following the reinstatement of a suspended lawmaker accused of domestic violence.
The lawmaker, Dickson Ovat Agbor, who represents Obubra I State Constituency, was earlier suspended by the Assembly over allegations of domestic abuse involving his spouse.
However, his recent recall has drawn condemnation from a civil society group, the Assembly for Moral Discipline, Justice and Restoration of Public Confidence, which described the decision as a breach of ethical standards expected of public office holders.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Calabar on Tuesday the group’s State Publicity Secretary, John Egon, faulted the Speaker’s action, saying the lawmaker was reinstated without sufficient evidence of accountability.
He warned that such a move could erode public trust in governance and weaken moral standards within the legislative arm of government.
According to Egon, the alleged conduct of the lawmaker amounted to a betrayal of public trust, stressing that leadership must be anchored on respect for human dignity and the protection of citizens.
“Any individual who consistently demonstrates disregard for these values cannot be entrusted with the responsibility of representing the people,” he said.
The group further argued that the decision to reinstate the lawmaker sends a wrong signal that misconduct can be overlooked, thereby undermining discipline and accountability in public office.
It also urged civil society organisations, including women’s rights groups, to scrutinise the circumstances surrounding the lifting of the suspension to ensure justice is served.
The group noted that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu is widely perceived to be anchored on discipline and accountability, warning that such actions could contradict the moral direction of the government.
Reacting, the Speaker’s spokesperson, Mathew Okache, defended the decision, stating that due process was followed.
Okache explained that the lawmaker’s suspension was lifted after he served the prescribed period, based on the recommendation of a committee set up by the House to investigate the matter.
He maintained that the Assembly acted within its constitutional powers in reinstating the lawmaker.
