Mr Ovat Agbor, the lawmaker representing Obubra I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, has been suspended indefinitely following allegations of violent conduct toward his wife.
The Assembly did not disclose specific details of the incidents, but sources say Agbor was accused of repeatedly manhandling his spouse, reportedly linked to excessive alcohol consumption and late-night habits. The House condemned such behaviour as inappropriate for a public official.
The suspension was approved during Thursday’s plenary session after a motion by Davies Etta, seconded by Francis Bassey Asuquo. Lawmakers noted that the conduct violated the ethical standards expected of members of the legislature.
Agbor was barred from all legislative activities pending the outcome of an investigation. A special committee has been set up to probe the allegations and report its findings to the House for further action. The lawmaker was escorted out of the chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms following the resolution.
Speaker Elvert Ayambem said the House remains committed to enforcing discipline and upholding the integrity of the legislature, stressing that members must act in a manner worthy of public trust.
Prior to the suspension, Governor Bassey Otu and his wife, Eyoanwan, had publicly criticised Agbor’s conduct. Reports indicated that the Speaker had earlier intervened to take Agbor’s wife to hospital for her safety.
In a statement, Glory Agbor, the lawmaker’s wife, appealed for privacy, asserting that she and her husband have resolved their differences amicably. She also announced her withdrawal from the Legislators’ Wives Association and urged the public to respect her family’s privacy.
