The Cross River State House of Assembly has indefinitely suspended Hon. Ovat Dickson Agbor, the member representing Obubra I State Constituency, following allegations of violent behavior, including repeated incidents of assaulting his wife.
The suspension was announced during plenary on Thursday after a motion moved by Hon. Davies Etta and seconded by Hon. Francis Bassey Asuquo. The House condemned the alleged actions as unbecoming of a legislator and contrary to the ethical standards expected of members.
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While the Assembly did not publicly detail the specific nature of the violence during proceedings, sources indicate the suspension stems from claims of domestic abuse linked to excessive drinking and late-night habits. Reports suggest Agbor had repeatedly manhandled his wife, Glory Agbor, with one incident reportedly requiring intervention by Speaker Elvert Ayambem, who allegedly drove to the lawmaker’s residence at night to rescue her and take her to the hospital.
Governor Bassey Otu and his wife, Eyoanwan Otu, had previously rebuked the lawmaker, describing his alleged actions as irresponsible. The governor’s wife reportedly expressed strong disapproval over the habitual alleged beatings.
In compliance with the House’s resolution, Agbor was escorted out of the chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
Speaker Elvert Ayambem emphasized the Assembly’s commitment to discipline, dignity, and integrity. “The House remains committed to upholding discipline, dignity, and the integrity of the legislature,” he stated. “Members must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the trust reposed in them by the people.”
The House constituted a committee to investigate the allegations and report back for further action. The suspension remains in effect pending the outcome of the probe.
In a surprising public statement today, Glory Agbor addressed the controversy, urging respect for her family’s privacy and denying violence in the marriage. She announced her withdrawal from the Legislators’ Wives Association, claiming some members, including the Speaker’s wife, had misled her.
“Every marriage has its issues, but no marriage is perfect,” she said. “My husband and I are in peace with each other. We have amicably resolved our differences. I stand to vehemently debunk views painting my family in bad light.”
She apologized to her husband and family for any misconceptions: “I wish to use this medium to apologize to my dear husband Hon. Ovat Agbor and my entire family over this misconceptions against him. Please forgive me as this will never repeat itself again.”
