Cross River lawmaker suspended for manhandling wife
Cross River Lawmaker Suspended Amid Violence Allegations
Mr. Ovat Agbor, representative for Obubra I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, has been suspended indefinitely following allegations of violent conduct. Details regarding the specific nature of the alleged violence have not been disclosed by the assembly.
However, it has been reported that Agbor has a history of domestic violence related to excessive alcohol consumption and late-night behavior. The assembly strongly condemned these reported actions, labeling them as unbecoming of a legislator.
During a plenary session on Thursday, a motion to suspend Agbor was presented by Davies Etta and seconded by Francis Bassey Asuquo. The assembly members emphasized that such behavior violates the ethical standards expected from those in legislative positions.
Following deliberations, the House unanimously agreed to suspend Agbor from all legislative activities. Additionally, a committee has been formed to investigate the matter and will present its findings to the assembly for further consideration.
Agbor was escorted from the chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms in accordance with the assembly’s directive.
Speaker Elvert Ayambem reaffirmed the assembly’s commitment to maintaining discipline and integrity within the legislature. He stressed the importance of members conducting themselves in a manner that upholds public trust.
The suspension will remain in place pending the outcome of the committee’s investigation.
Previously, Governor Bassey Otu and his wife, Eyoanwan Otu, had publicly criticized Agbor’s behavior, describing it as irresponsible. Reports indicated that the Speaker had intervened recently, arriving at Agbor’s residence late at night to assist his wife, Glory Agbor, following an incident requiring medical attention.
In a public statement, Glory Agbor requested privacy for her family, expressing concern over misinformation regarding their relationship. She announced her withdrawal from the Legislators’ Wives Association, asserting that she and her husband are in a state of reconciliation.
“I stand here to vehemently debunk any negative perceptions regarding my family and to clarify that, despite our issues, my husband and I have managed to resolve our differences amicably,” she stated. “I wish to apologize to my husband and our family for any misconceptions, and I assure you this will not happen again.”
