Otti suspends health commissioner for alleged misconduct

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has approved the suspension of the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo.

In a statement on Tuesday, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu, said the suspension was pending investigation into allegations of gross misconduct made against the commissioner.

He added that the governor’s action was in line with his zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct of any kind and that he strictly adheres to the principles of transparency and accountability in governance to ensure that the actions of appointees at all times serve the welfare and well-being of Abians.

The statement said: “The Abia State Government is committed to good governance and the rule of law which presumes persons innocent until proven guilty. Therefore, the administration diligently investigates and fixes any violations or wrongdoings uncovered through its internal monitoring and feedback system.

“In light 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 manage the affairs of the Ministry in the interim pending the outcome of further investigations into the allegations against Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo.”

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