Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has dismissed six civil servants from the state workforce after they were found guilty of salary padding. The governor also directed that the affected workers be handed over to the police for prosecution.
The decision was announced on Friday following the outcome of an internal investigation into irregularities discovered in the state’s payroll system. According to government officials, the dismissed employees were implicated in manipulating salary records to divert public funds for personal gain.
Governor Otti, who has repeatedly emphasised transparency and accountability since assuming office, said his administration would not tolerate fraudulent practices within the civil service. He explained that the exposure of the scam was part of broader reforms designed to sanitise the state’s wage bill and eliminate ghost workers.
By ordering the handover of the indicted staff to law enforcement agencies, Otti stressed that the matter would not be treated as an internal disciplinary issue alone, but also as a criminal act requiring full legal consequences. He said the move was meant to serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to engage in similar misconduct.
Abia State has been conducting a payroll verification exercise aimed at streamlining its salary system, curbing leakages, and ensuring that only legitimate employees are paid. The effort has already led to significant savings for the government and the identification of irregular entries within the system.
Officials close to the probe disclosed that the six dismissed workers allegedly inserted fictitious names into the salary structure and manipulated figures for personal benefit. The fraudulent activity reportedly caused financial losses to the state before it was uncovered during routine checks.
The governor’s action has drawn attention across the state, with many residents welcoming the tough stance as a step toward cleaning up the civil service. However, some labour groups have urged the government to ensure that due process is strictly followed in the prosecution of the accused.
Police authorities confirmed that the case has been taken up and investigations are ongoing. The six civil servants are expected to be formally charged in court once the police complete their findings.
Governor Otti reaffirmed that his administration is committed to building a new Abia anchored on accountability, discipline, and service delivery. He warned that his government would not shield any public servant, no matter their position, if found culpable of financial misconduct.
