Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, recently disclosed the findings of a committee established by his administration to investigate the conduct of the former Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo.
Speaking during his monthly live Radio and TV program at Government House, Umuahia, on Friday, the Governor addressed the people of Abia, clarifying that the committee’s report did not implicate the former commissioner in any theft or mismanagement of public funds, contrary to rumors circulating among some members of the public.
Otti, however, noted that the report did highlight certain procedural breaches allegedly committed by the former commissioner, quoting directly from the committee’s findings.
“Reviewing the report, there was no evidence of financial misconduct, but certain actions were not aligned with established policies. Given that she opted to resign, the government chose to accept her resignation,” the Governor stated.
“I want to reiterate that no money was stolen, and no funds were mismanaged. However, some procedures were violated, and while this was not deemed severe enough for more than a reprimand or caution, she chose to resign, and we accepted her decision,” he added.
In response to complaints regarding the reduction of some workers’ salaries in Abia, the Governor condemned the act as criminal but urged those affected to present evidence to the Commissioner for Information or the Accountant General for further investigation.
Touching on security issues, Otti praised the efforts of security agencies in the state, noting an improvement in security conditions.
He also announced a forthcoming policy change, stating that the retirement age for nurses in Abia State will be extended from 60 to 65 years, effective next week.
Additionally, Otti explained that his administration would no longer proceed with the planned transfer of a significant number of civil servants to schools as teachers.
