Suspended Cross River lawmaker apologises over alleged assault on wife

The suspended member representing Obubra I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Ovat Agbor, has publicly apologised over the alleged assault on his wife that led to his indefinite suspension from the Assembly.

In a personally signed statement issued on Monday, Agbor expressed remorse to the government and people of Cross River State, Governor Senator Bassey Otu and his wife, the leadership and members of the State House of Assembly, the people of Obubra Local Government Area, traditional rulers, political stakeholders, and both families involved.

“I sincerely express my profound apology to the Government and good people of Cross River State over the recent controversy that has generated public concern,” Agbor stated.

He specifically apologised to Governor Bassey Otu and the First Lady, Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for any embarrassment the incident may have caused the state government and its image.

Agbor also extended apologies to the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, his colleagues in the Assembly, his constituents in Obubra, and members of both families for the distress caused by the incident.

While noting that narratives circulating online did not fully reflect the situation, the lawmaker admitted that his earlier silence worsened public speculation.

“I take full responsibility for not coming out earlier to address the issue publicly. I acknowledge that my silence created room for speculation, and for that I am deeply sorry,” he said.

He reaffirmed his commitment to serving his constituents “with humility, responsibility and renewed dedication.”

The apology follows his indefinite suspension by the Cross River State House of Assembly over alleged violent conduct involving his wife, which the House described as unbecoming of a lawmaker and contrary to ethical standards.

Meanwhile, the police have confirmed that Agbor is currently being questioned over the incident at the Cross River State Police Command headquarters in Calabar.

The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the lawmaker is undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

“He is currently with us at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). He is under interrogation,” Eitokpah said.

The alleged assault, which reportedly occurred in late February, sparked widespread condemnation after images and videos showing the wife’s injuries circulated on social media, prompting swift action by the State Assembly.