By James Ndubuisi Nwakpa
The Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Monday Uzor, has refuted widespread speculations and misleading reports surrounding the recent suspension of over 80 government officials in the state, including Permanent Secretaries, Commissioners, and other appointees.
Dr. Uzor made this clarification during a recent on-the-air media engagement program where he expressed dismay over the trending falsehoods alleging that the suspension was due to the failure of the affected officials to attend a private burial ceremony or birthday celebration of the Governor’s daughter.
According to the Chief Press Secretary, while it is true that certain government officials were suspended, the decision had nothing to do with any private family function of the Governor. He categorically stated that the suspension was strictly based on the officials’ failure to attend the grand finale of the Ebonyi State Universal Basic Education Board (EBSUBEB) sports program, which was earlier declared a state function by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
Dr. Uzor explained that Governor Nwifuru had consistently warned his appointees, both in private and public fora, to take state functions seriously and ensure their presence at such events when manifested. He described the absence of the affected officials to be likely perceived as an act of indiscipline and outright disrespect to the office of the Governor, especially after multiple warnings had been issued.
He further emphasized that the suspension, which will last for one month without salary, was a disciplinary measure aimed at instilling a renewed sense of duty, accountability, and seriousness among government functionaries.
Dr. Uzor urged the public to disregard misleading narratives being circulated by mischief makers and instead focus on the Governor’s commitment to strengthening discipline, performance, and good governance in the state.
He reiterated that the present administration is deeply anchored on due process and discipline, adding that the suspension is not punitive, but corrective measure aimed at achieving optimum results in Ebonyi State public service system.
With the above clarifications, the CPS reaffirmed Governor Nwifuru’s unwavering commitment to the People’s Charter of Needs and his resolve to ensure that all appointed officials align with the administration’s vision of responsive and responsible governance.
