The Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Thursday impeached its chairman, Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba, over allegations of gross financial misconduct, embezzlement, and administrative high-handedness.
The impeachment took place at the party secretariat in Calabar during an emergency meeting of the State Working Committee (SWC) attended by chapter chairmen and other key stakeholders.
Eba, who assumed office in October 2021 under then Governor Ben Ayade, was accused of misappropriating party funds, withholding stipends to officials for over three months, and displaying arrogance that severely hampered party operations.
A communiqué signed by the SWC and chapter chairmen declared that his actions had “crippled party activities and strained relationships across the state.”
The motion for his removal was moved by State Welfare Secretary Okara Ekawu and seconded by State Treasurer Dr Matthew Egom after what was described as a thorough investigation.
The meeting directed Eba to immediately hand over all party property, documents, and control of the secretariat to an acting chairman pending directives from the National Executive Committee (NEC).
Chairman of the Forum of APC Local Government Chapter Chairmen, Kelvin Nyong, described the non-payment of stipends as “unprecedented” and accused Eba of deliberately creating divisions in breach of Sections 21:2 (ii & v) of the APC Constitution.
Party leaders present reaffirmed their loyalty to Governor Bassey Edet Otu and insisted the leadership change was essential for restoring stability and unity.
The impeachment marks the culmination of long-running grievances. Two years ago, prominent figures including Chief Peter Higgins and former presidential aide Chief Okoi Obono-Obla had unsuccessfully demanded Eba’s removal over similar allegations.
Last month, Eba further alienated many members by organising an elaborate airport reception for former Governor Ayade and publicly pledging allegiance to him – a move widely interpreted as a snub to the current state leadership.
