House Committee Exonerates Former Abia Health Commissioner of Financial Misconduct

In a recent disclosure, the Abia State Governor announced that a committee established by his administration has cleared Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo, the former Commissioner for Health, of allegations related to the theft and mismanagement of public funds. Dr. Okoronkwo, who was initially suspended, later resigned from her position.

During his monthly live broadcast from the Government House in Umuahia on Friday, the Governor addressed the people of Abia State, revealing that the committee’s findings did not substantiate the rumors circulating among some members of the public regarding financial impropriety by the former commissioner.

“The report shows no evidence of stolen or mismanaged funds,” the Governor stated. “However, there were certain procedural breaches noted, which were inconsistent with established policies. Despite this, the government decided to accept her resignation after she voluntarily stepped down.”

He emphasized, “I want to reiterate that no money was stolen or mismanaged. The issues identified were related to procedural lapses, which, while serious, were not enough to warrant severe action beyond a reprimand or caution. Dr. Okoronkwo, however, chose to resign, and we respected her decision.”

The Governor also addressed concerns raised by some state workers regarding alleged salary cuts, condemning the act as criminal. He urged those affected to present their evidence to the Commissioner for Information or the State Accountant General for further investigation.

On security matters, the Governor praised the improved efforts of security agencies in the state, noting a significant enhancement in overall safety. Additionally, he announced an upcoming policy change, extending the retirement age for nurses in the state from 60 to 65 years, effective next week. He also clarified that his administration would no longer proceed with the planned transfer of numerous civil servants to schools to serve as teachers.