Six senior officers in the Abia State Ministry of Justice have been dismissed for salary padding.
The dismissed officers – 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), were alleged to have engaged in the manipulation of payroll systems, resulting in the unlawful receipt of excess salaries over a sustained period.
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 State government approved the dismissal of the six staff following their indictment in a salary padding scheme uncovered during an internal audit and administrative inquiry.
A release issued by the chairman of Abia State Civil Service Commission, Pastor Eno Jerry Eze, stated 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.”
The release further noted however, that Mrs. Chioma Favour Madu, also initially investigated, has been cleared of wrongdoing, having promptly reported the overpayment and taken immediate steps to correct it.
“Additionally, the investigation raised serious concerns about the possible complicity of some members of the Salary Committee in the fraudulent scheme. The Governor has directed that the activities of the Committee be subjected to a separate probe to ensure full accountability.
“Those indicted and dismissed will be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
“This decisive action underscores the commitment of the present administration to transparency, discipline, and zero tolerance for corruption in public service. The Government wishes to assure the public that it will not relent in its effort to rid the system of all forms of fraudulent malpractice and unethical conduct,” the release reads.
The chairman urged civil servants and stakeholders in the public sector to remain committed to integrity and to report any suspected irregularities through appropriate and confidential channels.
