Cross River Lawmaker Issues Apology Over Alleged Domestic Violence

Ovat Agbor, a suspended representative of the Obubra I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, has extended an apology to the state government, legislative body, and his constituents for his alleged assault on his wife.

The apology was issued through a public statement on Monday, shortly after the assembly decided to suspend him indefinitely from all legislative activities.

Mr. Agbor shared the statement on his Facebook page, expressing remorse for the shame and distress his actions may have caused to the government and the people of Cross River State.

"I, Hon. Ovat Dickson Agbor, representing Obubra 1 State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, sincerely offer my profound apologies to the Government and the good people of Cross River State regarding the recent controversy that has raised public concern," he stated.

In his apology, Mr. Agbor acknowledged the impact of the incident on Governor Bassey Otu, the First Lady, and the assembly leadership. He conveyed his apologies specifically to Governor Otu and First Lady Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, admitting the embarrassment the incident might have caused to both the government and the state’s reputation.

He further addressed the Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, along with his fellow lawmakers, offering his sincerest apologies for any discomfort and distraction the incident may have triggered within the assembly.

The lawmaker did not stop there; he also reached out to political partners, traditional leaders, members of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the families involved in the matter.

Acknowledging that his delay in addressing the allegations worsened the situation, Mr. Agbor remarked, "While several narratives circulating online do not reflect the true situation, I take full responsibility for not coming forward sooner. My silence has allowed for speculation, and I am deeply sorry for that."

He reaffirmed his commitment to serving his constituents with humility and a renewed sense of duty.

In response to the matter, the police command in Cross River State indicated that both the lawmaker and his wife had complied with its invitation following the allegations. Police spokesperson Eitokpah Sunday noted that both parties were willing to resolve their issues, citing appeals made by the wife during their engagement.

The police confirmed that Mr. Agbor was released to a reliable surety while the case file would be submitted to the state Attorney-General for guidance after investigations conclude.

Background context reveals that the Cross River State House of Assembly suspended Mr. Agbor indefinitely after the institution received allegations of physical assault against his wife. This decision stemmed from a motion raised during plenary, with members condemning his alleged actions as contrary to the ethical standards expected from lawmakers. A committee was established to examine the allegations further and provide recommendations for legislative actions.