Abia Government Dismisses Six Justice Ministry Staff Over Salary Padding Scandal

The Abia State Government has dismissed six officials of the Ministry of Justice after they were indicted in a salary fraud scheme.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission, Dr. Eno Jerry-Eze, and made available to journalists on Friday in Umuahia.

According to Jerry-Eze, the fraud was uncovered during an internal audit and administrative inquiry at the ministry. The investigation revealed that the affected workers manipulated the payroll system, granting themselves unauthorized salary payments far above their lawful entitlements.

Those dismissed include a Principal Accountant (SGL 12), Senior Accountant (SGL 10), Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 14), Assistant Chief Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 13), Principal Executive Officer (Accounts – SGL 12), and Senior Executive Officer (General Duties – SGL 09).

“The disciplinary action followed a thorough investigation by the Abia State Civil Service Commission, which interviewed the indicted workers and reviewed financial records. The findings confirmed they deliberately benefited from irregular salary payments at the expense of the state,” Jerry-Eze said.

She further disclosed that the dismissed staff would be handed over to law enforcement authorities for prosecution.

Jerry-Eze urged all civil servants and individuals interacting with the state to uphold integrity and promptly report any suspected irregularities.

She also revealed that Governor Alex Otti had directed a probe into the activities of some members of the Salary Committee to ensure full accountability.