In a decisive move, Governor Alex Otti of
Abia State has issued an immediate order for the suspension of all permanent
secretaries across various Ministries, Agencies, and Departments (MDAs). The
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Katie Oko, announced this development on
Thursday, shedding light on the rationale behind the decision.
The suspension of the permanent secretaries
and the Head of Service has been triggered by the recent inauguration of the
Judicial Panel of Inquiry tasked with the recovery of properties and funds
belonging to the Abia State Government. To ensure a smooth transition during
this critical period, Governor Otti has taken steps to fill the vacant
positions temporarily.
Lady Joy Maduka, the current Director of
the Ministry of Education, has been appointed as the Acting Head of Service
(HOS) by the Governor's approval. Her vast experience and leadership skills are
expected to contribute significantly to the effective functioning of the
state's administrative machinery during this period of transition.
Moreover, in accordance with the suspension
order, John Pedro Iroakazi, the Clerk of the House, and Mrs. U. G. Uche Ikonne,
the Solicitor General, have been directed to hand over their duties to the most
senior Directors in their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
This bold step by Governor Alex Otti
demonstrates his commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the
diligent recovery of the state's assets. It sets the stage for a comprehensive
investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds and the recovery of
properties that rightfully belong to the Abia State Government.