The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has slammed a one-month working suspension without salary on 84 top government officials over what he described as their “inexcusable absence” at a key state function.
The decision, which takes immediate effect, was made public through a statement released on Monday, July 28, by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor.
According to the announcement, those affected include 25 commissioners, 14 senior special assistants, 24 special assistants, and 22 permanent secretaries — all of whom allegedly failed to attend an important, undisclosed state function.
Among the high-ranking appointees affected are:
Prof. Leonard Uguru, Commissioner for Budget and Planning
Dr. Moses Ikenna Ekuma, Commissioner for Health
Barr. Ikeuwa Omebe, Commissioner for Justice
Mrs. Nkechinyere Iyioku, Commissioner for Women Affairs
Dr. Lawrence Ezeogo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance
And Dr. Isioma Arunne-Inyang, Permanent Secretary, Establishments
No reasons were given for their absence, but the governor, who is known for his zero-tolerance stance on laxity, reportedly viewed their nonattendance as a dereliction of duty and a disregard for state protocol.
“This action serves as a stern warning to public servants who fail to uphold the discipline and commitment expected of them,” the statement emphasized.
The Governor, who has in the past warned against indiscipline and nonchalant attitudes among government officials, reiterated his administration’s resolve to promote accountability and active participation in governance processes.
The affected officers are expected to remain off duty throughout the month of August, with no salaries paid, and are to resume duties in September — subject to further directives.
Political observers in the state view the sweeping suspension as a bold attempt by Governor Nwifuru to sanitize the administrative structure and reinforce commitment across government institutions.
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