Governor Alex Otti Clarifies Resignation of Health Commissioner Amid Staff Rationalization

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, shed light on the resignation of Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo, the former Commissioner for Health, emphasizing that her departure was voluntary. The resignation, made public last Monday, followed her suspension two months earlier due to alleged “gross misconduct.”

Governor Otti clarified that the investigation into Dr. Okoronkwo’s conduct found no evidence of financial impropriety or theft but did uncover procedural violations. “Her resignation has been received and accepted,” Otti stated. “The committee’s report did not reveal any financial misconduct, but it did highlight some procedural abuses. No money was stolen or mismanaged; there were just procedural issues.”

Addressing the recent mass disengagement of staff from the Town Planning Authorities in Obingwa, Osisioma, Aba North, and Aba South Local Government Areas, Governor Otti explained that those affected were contract staff, not civil servants. He noted that the authority had become overstaffed, with many positions filled through political patronage. “We are now rationalizing the workforce, reabsorbing those with the necessary skills and experience while paying off the rest,” Otti explained.

On the topic of local government elections, Governor Otti announced plans to propose amendments to the local government electoral law to ensure a smooth election process. He assured that all political parties would be given fair opportunities in the upcoming elections.