The Abia State Government has approved the dismissal of six staff members of the Ministry of Justice following their involvement in a salary padding scheme uncovered during an internal audit and administrative inquiry.
The affected officers were found to have manipulated payroll systems, unlawfully receiving excess salaries over a sustained period. Those dismissed include:
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Mr. Dickson Uche Eze – Principal Accountant (SGL 12)
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Mrs. Esther Emeruwa – Senior Accountant (SGL 10)
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Mrs. Ijeoma Jonathan – Chief Executive Officer (Accounts - SGL 14)
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Mrs. Treasure Isinguzo – Assistant Chief Executive Officer (Accounts - SGL 13)
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Mrs. Chioma Victoria Erondu – Principal Executive Officer (Accounts - SGL 12)
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Mrs. Hannah Ezinne Eze – Senior Executive Officer (General Duties - SGL 09)
The disciplinary action followed a thorough investigation by the Abia State Civil Service Commission, which reviewed financial records, interrogated the officers, and confirmed that they knowingly benefited from irregular salary payments. Notably, Mrs. Chioma Favour Madu, initially investigated, was cleared of wrongdoing after promptly reporting overpayment and taking steps to correct it.
The probe also raised concerns about potential complicity among members of the Salary Committee. Governor [Name] has directed a separate investigation into the committee’s activities to ensure full accountability. The dismissed officers will be handed over to law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
The government emphasized that the action demonstrates its commitment to transparency, discipline, and zero tolerance for corruption in public service. Citizens and civil servants are urged to uphold integrity and report any suspected irregularities through confidential channels.
Experts note that while such decisive measures reinforce accountability, sustained vigilance, systemic reforms, and digital oversight of payroll systems are critical to preventing recurrence of such fraudulent practices.
Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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