Ikono Council Chairman Faces Impeachment Over Alleged Misconduct
Lawmakers in Ikono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have begun impeachment proceedings against the council chairman, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Oto-obong Essien, citing alleged gross misconduct, misappropriation of funds and breach of statutory duties.
The move was initiated on Tuesday during a plenary session of the Ikono 8th Legislative Council, where councillors unanimously adopted a motion to commence the process. The motion was moved by the councillor representing Ukpom Ward 5, Hon. Obong Joseph.
In a formal notice dated 20 January 2026, the legislators said the action was taken pursuant to Sections 44(1–3) and 28(d) of the Akwa Ibom State Local Government Administration Law, 2017 (as amended). According to the notice, the impeachment process is based on several allegations against the chairman, including her refusal to release funds approved in the council’s budget for constituency projects meant for councillors.
The councillors further accused the chairman of failing to submit statements of income and expenditure to the legislative council, spending council funds on items not captured in the approved budget, and petitioning security agencies against members of the council.
Councilors during the impeachment siting on Tuesday
One of the most contentious allegations is the claim that the chairman petitioned the councillors to the Nigeria Police Force headquarters in Abuja over alleged fraud, an action the lawmakers describe as an attempt to intimidate and undermine the legislative arm of the council.
The impeachment notice was signed by 10 of the 12 councillors, meeting the constitutional threshold required to initiate such proceedings.
At the time of filing this report, the council chairman had not publicly responded to the allegations. The legislative council said further steps would be taken in line with the law as the process unfolds.
More details are expected as the situation develops.
