Following the approval for the dismissal of six (6) staff of the Ministry of Justice over their indictment in a salary padding scheme uncovered during an internal audit and administrative inquiry, the Abia State Government has directed the investigation of some members of the State Salary Committee said to be involved in the fraudulent scheme.
Government in a release endorsed by the Chairman, Abia State Civil Service Commission, Pastor Eno Jerry Eze acknowledged that the investigation raised serious concerns about the possible complicity of some members of the Salary Committee in the act.
It vowed to ensure that those indicted will be dismissed and handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
The indicted and affected officers of the ministry, according to the statement, were found to have engaged in the manipulation of payroll systems, resulting in the unlawful receipt of excess salaries over a sustained period.
The dismissed officers include: Mr. Dickson Uche Eze – Principal Accountant (SGL 12), Mrs. Esther Emeruwa – Senior Accountant (SGL 10) and Mrs. Ijeoma Jonathan – Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 14).
Others are: Mrs. Treasure Isinguzo – Assistant Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 13), Mrs. Chioma Victoria Erondu – Principal Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 12) and Mrs. Hannah Ezinne Eze – Senior Executive Officer (General Duties – SGL 09).
The statement however, pointed out that Mrs. Chioma Favour Madu, who was initially investigated, has been cleared of wrongdoing, having promptly reported the overpayment and taken immediate steps to correct it.
The statement explained that the disciplinary action followed a detailed investigation by the Abia State Civil Service Commission, which independently interrogated the officers, reviewed relevant financial records, and confirmed that the above-named individuals had knowingly benefitted from irregular salary payments to the detriment of the State.
It further stated that the decisive action underscores the commitment of the present administration to transparency, discipline, and zero tolerance for corruption in public service and assured the public that it will not relent in its effort to rid the system of all forms of fraudulent malpractice and unethical conduct.
Government therefore urged all civil servants and stakeholders in the public sector to remain committed to integrity and to report any suspected irregularities through appropriate and confidential channels.
