In a surprising shake-up, Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has taken bold disciplinary action, suspending a total of 85 high-ranking government officials for failing to attend a key government function.
The suspended individuals include 25 commissioners, 22 permanent secretaries, and 38 political aides, all of whom now face a one-month suspension without exception.
The announcement was made on Monday night in a statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, and sent a strong signal that the administration expects full commitment and presence from its appointees.
Among those affected are major figures such as:
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Stanley Mbam, Commissioner for Works
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Prof. Leonard Uguru, Commissioner for Finance
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Dr. Mathew Nwobashi, Commissioner for Lands and Survey
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Mr. Victor Chukwu, Environment Commissioner
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Chief Ikeuwa Omebe, Commissioner for Information
The suspension also hits deep into the bureaucratic structure, affecting respected permanent secretaries like:
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Dr. Lawrence Ezeogo
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Dr. Isioma Arunne-Inyang
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Mrs. Rose Ibe
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Mrs. Ogechi Nwobashi
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Mrs. Theresa Anwu
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Dr. Lynda Alo
Political aides were not spared. Fourteen Senior Special Assistants (SSAs), including Mrs. Bessy Chukwu and Chief Anthony Nwegede, were named, alongside 24 Special Assistants (SAs) such as Mr. Emmanuel Mbam and Mr. Easy Okike-Uzor.
The suspension takes immediate effect. However, the statement didn’t specify who will take over the duties of the affected officials during their absence.
This isn’t the first time Ebonyi’s top officials are facing tough discipline. In fact, former governor Senator Dave Umahiwas known for similar no-nonsense decisions during his tenure.
Governor Nwifuru’s latest move may spark debate, but it sends a clear message: public service in Ebonyi comes with accountability—and showing up is the first step.
