Abia Governor suspends Commissioner for alleged ‘gross misconduct’

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has suspended the state’s Health Commissioner, Ngozi Okoronkwo, for “gross misconduct.”

The state’s Information Commissioner, Okey Kanu, announced this in a statement on Tuesday.

Mr Kanu said the suspension of Doctor Okoronkwo was intended to pave the way for an investigation into allegations of gross misconduct against her.

He did not provide any further details on the allegations against the suspended health commissioner.

He, however, said Governor Otti’s decision to suspend Ms Okoronkwo was in line with his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct.

He said the commissioner’s suspension was also in line with the governor’s “strong adherence to the twin principles of transparency and accountability in governance.”

Mr Kanu said the governor’s stance on misconduct ensures that the actions of the “appointees at all times compromise the welfare and well-being” of the residents of Abia Condition.

“The Government of Abia State is committed to good governance and the rule of law which presumes a person innocent until proven guilty.

“As a result, the administration is very diligent in investigating and identifying any violations or misconduct uncovered through its internal monitoring and feedback system,” he said.

“In view of these developments, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health, Dr. Ifeyinwa Kalu will work with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Azodo, to run the affairs of the Ministry in the interim pending the outcome of further investigations into the allegations against Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo.”

This is the first time in the last year of the government that it has been publicly announced that a commissioner has been suspended or removed from office.