By Adesakin Adefemi
A Cross River State lawmaker, Mr. Ovat Dickson Agbor, has been arrested over allegations of domestic violence and wife battery, sending shockwaves through the state’s political circles.
The lawmaker, who represents Obubra 1 State Constituency, was picked up by the police on Monday morning in Calabar, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the erstwhile influential politician.
According to reports, Agbor was arrested following a public outcry over his alleged assault on his wife, which has been described as a “brutal and cowardly act” by women’s rights groups and legal practitioners.
The incident led to his suspension by the Cross River State House of Assembly, with the Speaker, Elvert Anyanbem, condemning the act as a “public disgrace” and a betrayal of the trust reposed in him by the people.
The police confirmed Agbor’s arrest, with Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, stating that the lawmaker is currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department, facing charges of domestic violence and wife battery.
The police have also urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, as they work to ensure that justice is served.
Agbor’s wife had reportedly condemned the assault, describing it as “irresponsible and unbecoming of a public office holder”. However, she later claimed that the matter was a family issue and accused the Speaker’s wife of misleading her into making the assault public.
The conflicting statements have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident and the role of the Speaker’s wife in the matter.
Women’s rights groups and legal practitioners have condemned the violence, calling for stricter measures against domestic abuse by public officials.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability, with many wondering if Agbor’s career is over.
Agbor has issued an official apology, expressing remorse for his actions and pledging to seek reconciliation. However, the police are pressing ahead with investigations, and further legal action is expected.
The Cross River State House of Assembly has also launched its own investigation into the matter, with many calling for Agbor to face the full weight of the law.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the state’s political circles, with many wondering if Agbor’s career is over. The incident has also raised questions about the prevalence of domestic violence in Nigeria and the need for stricter measures to prevent it.
The police have assured the public that they will leave no stone unturned in their investigation, and that justice will be served. The case is a reminder that no one is above the law, and that domestic violence will not be tolerated.
As the investigation continues, many are calling for Agbor to be stripped of his position and made to face the consequences of his actions.
The outcome of the investigations will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how Nigeria deals with domestic violence and abuse of power by public officials.
The people of Cross River State are calling for justice, and the world is watching to see how this case will be handled.
