The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, is facing criticism following the reinstatement of suspended lawmaker Dickson Ovat Agbor, who represents Obubra I State Constituency.
The Assembly for Moral Discipline, Justice, and Restoration of Public Confidence faulted the decision, describing it as a contradiction of ethical standards expected of public office holders in Cross River State.
Speaking in Calabar, the group’s Publicity Secretary, John Egon, said the lawmaker was recalled without clear evidence of accountability after his earlier suspension over alleged domestic violence.
The group warned that the move could erode public trust in governance and weaken the moral foundation of leadership, stressing that public office requires integrity, discipline, and respect for human dignity.
It also criticised Speaker Ayambem for approving the reinstatement, arguing that such actions could send the wrong message that misconduct may be overlooked within the legislative system.
The group further noted that the administration of Bassey Otu is built on discipline and accountability, cautioning that decisions like this may undermine those principles.
It called on civil society organisations, including women’s rights groups, to review the circumstances surrounding the reinstatement to ensure justice is served.
In response, the Speaker’s spokesperson, Mathew Okache, defended the decision, stating that due process was followed and that the lawmaker’s suspension was lifted after recommendations from a committee set up to investigate the matter.
