Abia Government Warns Corrupt Civil Servants, Launches Whistleblower Channels for Reporting Unethical Conduct

Jul 19, 2025 - 13:13
 0
Abia Government Warns Corrupt Civil Servants, Launches Whistleblower Channels for Reporting Unethical Conduct

The Abia State Government has issued a stern warning to civil servants engaged in theft and corrupt practices, vowing to take decisive action against anyone sabotaging the integrity of the public service.

Speaking during an address to civil servants in Umuahia, the Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, said the state will no longer tolerate unethical behaviour in the civil service, noting that such conduct has severely damaged public trust.

“The time of using government work as a cover for personal enrichment is over,” Ojeikere stated. “Those who have made corruption and theft their survival strategy must change or be shown the door.”

In a bold move to back this resolve with action, the state government has unveiled direct whistleblowing channels for reporting misconduct. Stakeholders and members of the public are encouraged to report unethical behaviours by calling 0802 700 0051 or sending an email to abiareportdesk@gmail.com (email assumed, adjust as needed if an actual address was given).

Ojeikere highlighted that pervasive theft, fraud, and laziness within the service have created a toxic work culture and damaged the civil service’s reputation. He called for a cultural reset driven by discipline, responsibility, and a commitment to public good.

According to him, civil servants must begin to see their roles as avenues for service and impact, not personal enrichment. He urged them to adopt a positive mindset, embrace professionalism, and align with the new operational procedures introduced by the administration.

“Civil service is not a comfort zone—it’s a platform for contribution. If we want to restore dignity to our institutions, we must start by checking ourselves,” he said.

He further warned that acts of sabotage against government policies and reforms will be met with strict disciplinary measures.

The anti-corruption stance aligns with Governor Alex Otti’s broader reform agenda to rebuild public confidence in the Abia workforce and ensure that public funds are used for the benefit of the people, not a privileged few.

Public service watchers believe this marks a turning point in the administration’s effort to clean up the system and bring accountability to the frontlines of governance in Abia State.