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Nigeria: Impeachment looms in Cross River State for Yala LGC Chairman

The Yala Local Government Legislative Council in Cross River State, Southern Nigeria, is set to issue an impeachment notice to the council chairman, according to information reaching Diaspora Digital Media (DDM).
DDM understands that he chairman, Hon. Fred Okem, is being haunted over allegations of misconduct and abuse of power.
According to sources, Okem failed to order his appointees to appear before the house for screening, contrary to established protocols.
The legislative council further alleged that all of the chairman’s appointees did not follow due process before resuming their duties.
This blatant disregard for the law has sparked outrage among lawmakers, who are now seeking to hold the chairman accountable for his actions.
Crossfilm Network, another source which corroborated our findings, revealed that the chairman bypassed protocols meant to ensure that appointees are legally qualified for their positions.
According to it, “the proposed impeachment notice is a clear indication that the legislative council will no longer tolerate abuse of power and disregard for the law.”
It remains to be seen whether Okem will take steps to address the allegations and restore confidence in his leadership.
How Okem emerged against the run of play
Hon. Okem’s emergence as Chairman has not doused the argument that the chairmanship should have zoned to South Ukelle to maintain balance and ensure all communities feel represented.
The zoning debate is not unique to Yala LGA, as it has been a recurring issue in Nigerian politics.
The concept of zoning is aimed at promoting fairness and equity in the distribution of political offices.
In the case of Okem, his opponents argue that he does not hail from the zone that is supposed to produce the next chairman.
How do you know Yala?
Yala Local Government Area is one of the 18 local government areas in Cross River State, Nigeria.
The area is situated in the northern part of the state and shares boundaries with Ebonyi State to the north, Benue State to the east, and Oju Local Government Area of Benue State to the west.
Yala Local Government Area has a population of over 210,000 people, according to the 2006 census, and is inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Yala, Ukelle, and Igede people.
Yala Local Government Area is rich in natural resources, including salt deposits, limestone, and timber.
The area is also known for its agricultural produce, including yams, cassava, and plantains.
Despite its natural resources and agricultural potential, Yala Local Government Area faces several development challenges, including poor road networks, inadequate healthcare facilities, and limited access to education.
Cross River State…
Cross River State is a coastal state located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, bordering Cameroon to the east.
With a population of over 3.7 million people, the state is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and diverse wildlife.
Cross River State is home to the famous Obudu Plateau, the Kwa Falls, and the Cross River National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The state capital, Calabar, is a major urban center and a hub for commerce, education, and tourism.
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