Abia government announces reasons for suspension of health commissioner

The Abia State Government has confirmed the suspension of Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo.

In a statement on Tuesday, Information Commissioner Prince Okey Kanu said Okoronkwo was suspended for “gross misconduct towards her”.

The statement reads, in part: “The Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, has approved the suspension of the Abia State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo, from her office.

“The suspension is intended to pave the way for an investigation into the allegations of gross misconduct made against the Commissioner.

“Governor Otti’s actions are consistent with his zero tolerance policy towards misconduct of any kind and his strict adherence to the principles of transparency and accountability in governance to ensure that the actions of appointees serve the welfare and well-being of the Abians at all times.

“The Abia State Government is committed to good governance and the rule of law which presumes persons innocent until proven guilty. Therefore, the administration diligently investigates and fixes any violations or wrongdoings uncovered through its internal monitoring and feedback system.

“In light of these developments, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Ifeyinwa Kalu, will work with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Azodo, to manage the affairs of the Ministry in the interim pending the outcome of further investigations into the allegations against Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo.”