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Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026
IKOM – The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has dismissed allegations that he is plotting to remove the Executive Chairman of Ikom Local Government Area, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.
Responding to widespread reports and public speculation, Ayambem insisted that his involvement in recent developments in Ikom is strictly driven by concerns over governance, accountability, and the overall interest of the people, not personal or political ambition.
"This is about governance, not politics," the Speaker said, stressing that there is no agenda to unseat the council chairman or install any preferred successor. According to him, claims that he is pursuing a third-term ambition or nurturing a governorship aspiration ahead of 2031 are "very unfounded" and do not reflect his political focus or intentions.
Ayambem explained that a series of stakeholders' meetings were convened by Ikom leaders to address growing concerns over the administration of the local government council, including financial management and service delivery. He noted that at a recent meeting attended by about 47 leaders from Ikom, both within and outside the state, issues bordering on alleged maladministration were raised.
The Speaker alleged that the council chairman failed to honour invitations to the stakeholders' meeting despite being in Ikom at the time, a development he said was viewed by many leaders as disrespectful and troubling. He further claimed that allegations of financial mismanagement, including the handling of council funds and revenue-generating agencies, were brought before the gathering.
According to Ayambem, the stakeholders resolved to set up a six-man committee to investigate the concerns raised, including factors responsible for Ikom's performance in the 2023 governorship election. He said the outcome of the committee's work would be formally presented to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for necessary action.
"The leadership of Ikom has a responsibility to ask questions and demand accountability. This process is not targeted at removing anyone but at correcting what is not right," he said.
The Speaker also rejected suggestions that his actions are linked to the 2027 elections, maintaining that the objective is to strengthen unity, governance, and political organization in Ikom ahead of future contests. He emphasized that no individual should be allowed to operate the local government as a sole administrator outside established laws and procedures.
On claims that the chairman enjoys protection due to her perceived closeness to the First Lady of the state, Ayambem dismissed such narratives, stating that the First Lady is known for her commitment to truth and accountability, regardless of personal relationships.
Despite the controversy, Ayambem maintained that peaceful engagement remains the preferred option, noting that the issues can still be resolved through dialogue if the council leadership addresses the concerns raised by stakeholders.
As the situation continues to attract public attention, political observers have called for calm, transparency, and strict adherence to due process to prevent further escalation. The unfolding developments in Ikom are expected to test the strength of local governance structures and stakeholder engagement in Cross River State.
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