C’River Assembly Suspends Lawmaker Over Domestic Violence Allegations

The Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended the member representing Obubra I State Constituency, Dickson Agbor, indefinitely over alleged domestic violence.

The decision was reached on Thursday during plenary after a motion was moved by Davies Etta and seconded by Francis Bassey Asuquo.

Presenting the motion, Etta condemned the alleged violent conduct involving the lawmaker, describing it as behaviour unbecoming of a member of the legislative arm and inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of elected representatives.

According to him, the House must take decisive action to safeguard its integrity and public image.

“We must ensure that members conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the values and responsibilities entrusted to us by the people,” he said.

Following deliberations, the Assembly resolved to place Agbor on indefinite suspension from all legislative activities pending the outcome of an investigation into the allegations.

The House also approved the constitution of an ad hoc committee to investigate the matter and report its findings for further legislative action.

In compliance with the resolution, Agbor was escorted out of the chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Reacting to the development, the Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, said the Assembly remains committed to upholding discipline, dignity and the integrity of the legislature.

He stressed that members must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the trust reposed in them by their constituents.

“The House will not condone any form of misconduct capable of bringing the legislature into disrepute. We must continue to uphold the dignity of this institution,” Ayambem stated.

The Assembly maintained that the suspension will remain in force pending the outcome of the investigative committee’s report.

Earlier, Bassey Otu and his wife, Eyoanwan Otu, had criticised the lawmaker’s alleged actions, describing them as irresponsible.

However, in a statement issued on Thursday, Agbor’s wife, Glory Agbor, appealed for privacy, stating that the matter had been resolved within the family.

“There is no doubt that some people have tried to paint the name of my family in a bad light, but I stand here to vehemently debunk that view against my family, and state it clearly here that my husband and I are at peace with each other. Even though issues arose, we have been able to amicably resolve our differences.

“As I said, this is my family, and no marriage is totally perfect. Please leave my family alone,” she said.

She further apologised to her husband and family.

“I wish to use this medium to apologise to my dear husband, Hon. Ovat Agbor, and my entire family over these misconceptions against him. Please forgive me, as this will never repeat itself again,” she added.

She also announced her withdrawal from the Legislators’ Wives Association.