The Abia State Government has announced the dismissal of six staff members from the Ministry of Justice following their involvement in a salary padding scheme uncovered during an internal audit and administrative inquiry.
According to a statement issued by Pastor Eno Jerry Eze, Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission, the affected officers were found to have manipulated payroll systems, resulting in the unlawful receipt of excess salaries over a sustained period.
The Commission emphasized that the disciplinary action followed a thorough investigation involving financial record reviews and direct interrogation of the implicated officers. It was concluded that they knowingly benefitted from irregular salary payments to the detriment of the state.
One officer, Mrs. Chioma Favour Madu, who was initially under investigation, has been cleared of any wrongdoing. She was commended for promptly reporting the overpayment and taking immediate corrective action.
Governor Alex Otti has directed a separate probe into the activities of the Salary Committee, following concerns about possible complicity in the fraudulent scheme. The dismissed officers will be handed over to law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
“This decisive action underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency, discipline, and zero tolerance for corruption in public service,” said Pastor Eze. “We urge all civil servants to uphold ethical standards and report any suspected irregularities through confidential channels.”