Abia: Health workers support Governor Otti in suspending commissioner

Officials of the Abia State Ministry of Health in Umuahia have welcomed the suspension of Commissioner for Health, Ngozi Okoronkwo, by Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday.

In her view, the suspension of the commissioner was a good move by the governor, which also shows that he really listens to the voice of the people of Abia.

Okoronkwo was suspended following allegations of gross misconduct against her.

Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ifeyinwa Kalu, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Ngozi Azodo, have been appointed by the state government to run the affairs of the Ministry pending the outcome of the investigations into Okoronkwo.

A visit to the Abia State Ministry of Health, Abia State Secretariat, on Tuesday revealed that some officials working in the ministry were satisfied with the suspension of the commissioner.

Employees were seen smiling, discussing the development in hushed tones, shaking hands and saying that the governor had made the right decision.

Some workers, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of harassment, claimed that their suspended representative was arrogant and unfriendly in her dealings with workers.

An official of the Health Management Board (HMB), who identified himself only as “comrade”, urged the Governor to use the opportunity of the Commissioner’s inquiry to investigate some complaints made by HMB employees.

“We welcome the governor’s decision to suspend the commissioner. Governor Alex Otti has earned our support and respect for his zero tolerance for corruption. If the commissioner is found innocent, she should be removed, but if the allegations are proven true, our governor should appoint a new, pro-worker commissioner,” Comrade said.

The Abia State Government, however, has stated that the Commissioner is being investigated for gross misconduct, but has said that she will remain presumed innocent until the findings of the investigation prove the allegations to be true.