News
Cross River: Egbung Sworn In as Acting Chairman of Bekwarra Following Ushie’s Suspension
• 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.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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