Cross River Assembly Speaker, Elvert Ayambem, has been impeached. The Speaker, Elvert Ekom Ayambem, was removed from his position by 17 members of the Cross River State House of Assembly during Wednesday’s plenary session, following allegations of misappropriation of funds.
The impeachment motion was initiated by Effiom Ekarika, the representative of Calabar South 1 Constituency, and was promptly seconded by Omang Charles Omang, the lawmaker for Bekwarra State Constituency.
Ayambem’s tenure as Speaker began in June 2023, marking his leadership of the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly.
His impeachment underscores the ongoing scrutiny and accountability mechanisms within the legislative body. The decision to impeach Ayambem reflects the Assembly’s commitment to addressing financial irregularities and maintaining integrity in its operations.
The allegations against Ayambem involve the alleged mismanagement and diversion of public funds, which sparked considerable controversy and led to calls for his removal.
The motion to impeach him gained significant support among the Assembly members, highlighting the severity of the accusations and the collective desire to uphold ethical standards.
Effiom Ekarika, in his address to the Assembly, detailed the charges against Ayambem, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
His motion resonated with many lawmakers who felt that swift action was necessary to preserve the credibility of the Assembly.
Omang Charles Omang, in seconding the motion, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of maintaining public trust in the legislative process.
The rapid support for the motion underscored the Assembly’s unified stance on the matter.
The impeachment of Ayambem is a significant development in the political landscape of Cross River State.
It not only signals a decisive move against corruption but also sets a precedent for future legislative conduct. As the Assembly moves forward, the focus will likely shift to appointing a new Speaker and addressing the aftermath of the impeachment.
The removal of Ayambem from office serves as a reminder of the critical role of legislative oversight and the imperative for public officials to adhere to ethical standards.
The Cross River State House of Assembly, through this action, aims to reinforce its commitment to good governance and accountability.
