Abia Govt Probes Salary Committee After Officials Dismissed for Fraud

The Abia State Government has announced a fresh probe into the activities of its Salary Committee, following allegations that some members may have been complicit in a salary padding scheme.

This comes after the dismissal of six civil officers from the Ministry of Justice over their verified involvement in the fraud.

According to a statement signed by Eno Jerry Eze, Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission, the following staff were removed from service after investigations confirmed their role in the scheme:

• Mrs. Hannah Ezinne Eze, Senior Executive Officer

• Mrs. Ijeoma Jonathan, Chief Executive Officer

• Mrs. Treasure Isinguzo, Assistant Chief Executive Officer

• Mrs. Dickson Uche Eze, Principal Accountant

• Mrs. Esther Emeruwa, Senior Accountant

The government said suspicions remain that certain members of the Salary Committee may have been involved in the fraudulent practice.

“The investigation raised serious concerns about the possible complicity of some members of the Salary Committee in the fraudulent scheme. The Governor has directed that the activities of the Committee be subjected to a separate probe to ensure full accountability,” the statement noted.

Earlier in 2025, Benson Ojeikere, Abia’s Head of Service, had cautioned public officials against engaging in corrupt practices, warning that anyone found guilty would face strict consequences.

Salary padding scandals erode public trust and drain state resources meant for development and welfare. Abia’s decision to extend its probe signals a stronger push for accountability and transparency within the state’s civil service.