The Nigeria Police Force in Cross River State has confirmed the arrest of a member of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Ovat Agbor, over allegations of domestic violence involving his wife.
Agbor, who represents Obubra I State Constituency, was reportedly taken into custody on Monday and is currently being interrogated by investigators.
Confirming the development in Calabar, the state capital, the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Eitokpah, said the lawmaker was arrested earlier in the day and taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for questioning.
According to Eitokpah, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, the lawmaker is being investigated over allegations of physically assaulting his wife.
“Mr. Agbor, who was arrested on Monday morning, is currently with the State Criminal Investigation Department where he is being interrogated over the allegation of domestic violence,” the police spokesperson said.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians condemning the alleged assault and calling for accountability.
In response, the Cross River State House of Assembly last Thursday suspended Agbor from all legislative activities.
During plenary, lawmakers condemned the alleged incident, describing it as “conduct unbecoming” of a member of the legislature and inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of public office holders.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to place the lawmaker on indefinite suspension while investigations continue.
The Assembly also approved the constitution of a special committee to probe the allegations and report its findings to the House for further legislative action.
Meanwhile, Agbor has issued a public apology over the controversy.
On Monday, the embattled lawmaker apologised to the Bassey Otu, governor of Cross River State, members of the State Assembly, his constituents, and the people of the state over the incident.
The police say investigations are ongoing.
