The State Working Committee, SWC, of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Cross River State has impeached the party chairman, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, over allegations of financial misconduct and administrative high-handedness.
The action was taken Thursday at the APC state secretariat in Calabar.
Eba, who became chairman in October 2021 under former governor Ben Ayade, was accused of embezzlement, misappropriation of party funds, arrogance, and failure to pay stipends to party officials.
In a communiqué signed by members of the SWC, chapter chairmen and other stakeholders, the officials said Eba’s conduct had crippled party operations and strained relationships across the state.
The impeachment aligns with earlier demands from the Forum of APC Chapter Chairmen, who had accused him of withholding stipends for more than three months and worsening the welfare of ward and chapter officials.
The motion for his removal was moved by the State Welfare Secretary, Okara Ekawu, and seconded by the State Treasurer, Dr. Matthew Egom. They said the committee thoroughly investigated the allegations before reaching a unanimous decision.
Eba was directed to hand over all party property and documents, including control of the secretariat, to the acting chairman pending further directives from the National Executive Committee (NEC).
Forum Chairman and Boki LGA Chairman, Kelvin Nyong, described the non-payment of stipends as unprecedented and accused Eba of creating divisions within the party in violation of Sections 21:2 (ii & v) of the APC Constitution.
Party leaders present reaffirmed their loyalty to Governor Bassey Otu and said the leadership change was necessary for stability and effective administration.
Eba had faced similar opposition about two years ago when party stalwarts, including Chief Peter Higgins and former presidential aide Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, called for his removal over related allegations.
Last month, he sparked controversy by organizing a grand airport reception for former governor Ben Ayade and openly declaring loyalty to him, a move seen as slighting the current leadership.