The Abia State Government has dismissed six officers of the Ministry of Justice over allegations of manipulating payroll systems to receive excess salaries.
The disciplinary action followed a detailed investigation by the State Civil Service Commission, which independently reviewed financial records and interrogated the officers.
According to a statement by the Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission, Eno Eze, the dismissed civil servants included a Principal Accountant (SGL 12), Senior Accountant (SGL 10), Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 14), Assistant Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 13), Principal Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 12) and a Senior Executive Officer (General Duties – SGL 09).
The investigation revealed that the officers knowingly benefited from irregular salary payments, resulting in the unlawful receipt of excess salaries over a sustained period.
However, one officer, Mrs. Chioma Favour Madu, was cleared of wrongdoing after promptly reporting the overpayment and taking immediate steps to correct it.
“The government notes, 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, ” the statement said.
The State Government directed that the activities of the Salary Committee be subjected to a separate probe to ensure full accountability.
It noted that those indicted and dismissed would be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
The government emphasised its commitment to transparency and zero tolerance for corruption in public service.
It urged civil servants to report suspected irregularities through confidential channels, demonstrating its dedication to maintaining integrity in the public sector.
