Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has taken decisive action to address what he describes as widespread absenteeism and indiscipline within the state civil service, ordering the suspension of workers who were absent from their duty posts during his unannounced inspection of the state secretariat in Awka. The directive reflects heightened emphasis on accountability, punctuality, and professionalism in public service as part of a broader push to reform governance and service delivery in the southeastern state.
The surprise visit on Thursday saw Governor Soludo move from office to office across various ministries and departments shortly after the official workday began. The inspection, carried out without prior notice to staff, was aimed at assessing workers’ punctuality, conduct and overall commitment to public service obligations. Officials reported that a substantial number of civil servants were not present at their duty posts by 10 a.m., prompting immediate action from the governor.
Addressing journalists following the inspection, Soludo emphasised that such behaviour would no longer be tolerated in Anambra’s public sector. He directed that civil servants who were not found at their duty posts by 10 a.m. on that day should be suspended without pay, characterising the situation as “unacceptable.” The governor underscored that the state could not sustain an inefficient workforce and warned that those he described as “bad eggs” in the system would be removed.
Soludo acknowledged that his observations during the surprise visit revealed a mix of “the good, the bad and the ugly,” commending the officers who demonstrated professionalism, punctuality and dedication. He praised diligent workers for their commitment and noted that they remain essential to advancing the administration’s goals. At the same time, he made clear that returning to work on time and fulfilling official duties were non‑negotiable expectations for the state’s civil servants.
The governor’s directive to suspend absentee workers came as part of broader concerns about morale, work culture and accountability within the civil service. Soludo indicated that the unannounced inspection was intended not only to address punctuality but also to signal a renewed effort to reform the state’s administrative machinery. He signalled that the government would be strengthening supervision, performance evaluation and accountability mechanisms across ministries to ensure that public resources are put to effective use and that public servants meet the expectations of citizens.
The move follows Soludo’s consolidation of power following his re‑election earlier in 2026 and reflects his ongoing focus on governance reforms. Since assuming office as governor in 2022 and securing a second term in March 2026, Soludo has repeatedly emphasised the need for robust institutions and efficient public administration. His agenda has included not only internal civil service reforms but also broader initiatives aimed at infrastructure development and economic growth within the state.
Public reaction to the governor’s decision has been mixed. Some residents and civic advocates have commended the tough stance on absenteeism, viewing it as a necessary step toward improved service delivery and enhanced respect for public office. They say that greater discipline among civil servants could translate into better outcomes for residents who depend on government services. Others, including some workers, have expressed concern about the abrupt imposition of suspensions and the potential impact on livelihoods, calling for complementary policies that support worker morale while encouraging performance improvements.
Observers note that Soludo’s approach highlights long‑standing public sector challenges in parts of Nigeria, where absenteeism, lateness and weak accountability have often hindered effective governance. By publicly enforcing consequences for such conduct, the Anambra governor appears intent on setting a precedent for behaviour expectations and reinforcing the principle that public service must be anchored in responsibility and integrity.
The governor’s office cautioned that further measures to institutionalise discipline may be forthcoming, with an indication that absenteeism and poor work attitudes will continue to draw scrutiny and sanction. As the state government implements these directives, attention will be on whether the suspensions lead to sustained improvements in workplace behaviour and whether broader reforms to civil service management accompany this more stringent enforcement stance.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments