Abia State government says it is not perturbed over the investigation of some staff of the Ministry of Finance by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged case of fraud and stealing of state fund as a result of a petition written by a commissioner in the state civil service commission against the concerned staff.
Commissioner for Information Chief John Okiyi Kalu stated this at Government House Umuahia,while briefing journalists over the issue.
Okiyi who pointed out that the administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is anchored on transparency and accountability,said the state government welcomes genuine scrutiny from any quarter within the ambits of the law.
He added that the administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has zero tolerance for corruption and has long been adjudged the most transparent in the country, pointing out that the invitation of the commissioner for Finance is to shed more light on some issues raised by the petitioner.
Contributing the Commissioner for Finance Mr Obinna Oriaku noted that the thrust of the ongoing investigation is centered around the 2017 annual report of the State audit team with the contentious issue already withdrawn by the same audit unit when presented with relevant facts concerning their observations.
He said that Governor Ikpeazu expects all employees of the government to carry out their official functions with the highest level of transparency, professionalism and also be prepared to give account to relevant institutions and the people of the state any time they are called upon.
Recall that a serving commissioner in the Abia State Civil service dragged staff of the State audit department and bureau of statistics of Abia state Civil Service to the EFFC over what of termed as a case of fraud and stealing of state/public funds.
