Salary Padding Scandal Exposed
The Abia State Government has dismissed six civil servants from the Ministry of Justice after uncovering their involvement in a salary padding scheme. The dismissal, approved following an internal audit and administrative inquiry, highlights the state’s commitment to accountability in public service.
The indicted officers were accused of manipulating payroll systems to unlawfully receive inflated salaries over a sustained period. Those affected include:
- Mr. Dickson Uche Eze – Principal Accountant (SGL 12)
- Mrs. Esther Emeruwa – Senior Accountant (SGL 10)
- Mrs. Ijeoma Jonathan – Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 14)
- Mrs. Treasure Isinguzo – Assistant Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 13)
- Mrs. Chioma Victoria Erondu – Principal Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 12)
- Mrs. Hannah Ezinne Eze – Senior Executive Officer (General Duties – SGL 09)
Civil Service Commission Investigation
The disciplinary action followed a thorough investigation by the Abia State Civil Service Commission, which interrogated the officers and reviewed financial records. The Commission confirmed that the dismissed officials knowingly benefitted from irregular payments, causing financial losses to the state.
One officer, Mrs. Chioma Favour Madu, was cleared of wrongdoing after promptly reporting an overpayment and taking immediate corrective steps. Her integrity, the Commission noted, serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency in public service.
The probe also raised concerns about the possible complicity of the Salary Committee, prompting the Governor to order a separate investigation into its activities.
Government’s Zero-Tolerance Stance
According to Pst. Eno Jerry Eze (PhD), Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, those dismissed will be handed over to relevant law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
“This decisive action underscores the government’s zero tolerance for corruption, fraud, and unethical conduct in public service,” Eze said.
The government urged all civil servants and stakeholders to remain committed to integrity, report irregularities through appropriate channels, and work collectively toward restoring public confidence in the system.
The dismissal sends a strong message that the administration will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of corruption and ensure a transparent, disciplined workforce.