•Gov signs landmark bills into law
•Assembly suspends LG chair for three months

In a bold legislative stride aimed at repositioning Cross River State for inclusive growth, Governor Bassey Otu has signed nine bills into law and received a unanimous endorsement from the Cross River State House of Assembly for his sterling performance during his two years in office.

The legislators, led by the Speaker, Elvert Ayambem, used the opportunity of the audience with Otu to formally pass an endorsement motion supporting the governor for a second term in office in 2027.

The bills signed into law by the governor span critical sectors, such as water, health, security, infrastructure, and environmental research, reflecting the administration’s push to modernise state governance and address pressing developmental needs.

The new laws include the Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5, 2025, which guarantees citizens access to basic water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, among others.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, the governor commended the legislature for its dedication and responsiveness over the past two years.

MEANWHILE, the Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Council, Theresa Ushie, for three months, following a petition by members of the Bekwarra Legislative Council, alleging abuse of office and misappropriation of funds.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Matthew Okache, noted that the lawmakers passed this resolution during plenary on Tuesday in Calabar, stating that the suspension was done in compliance with Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law.