Abia Judicial panel of inquiry on recovery of government asset submits report to Governor Otti
The Abia state judiciary panel of inquiry instituted earlier this year and chaired by Justice Florence Duruoha-Igwe rtd has submitted its interim report to Governor Otti.
The panel tasked with the arduos responsibility of investigating the illegal acquisition of government properties and funds presented its findings to the Governor on friday in his country home Nvosi Isiala Ngwa south local government area.
The governor while receiving the report acknowledged the complexity of the panel’s task and therefore extended their time frame inorder to leave no stone unturned to make sure they complete their duties as well as address areas not yet covered.
Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment in making sure that the panel’s recommendations are implemented.
He sternly warned that his administration has the courage to take necessary actions to prevent further abuse of government.
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The governor extoled the panel for its dedication and commitment in performing its duties despite various challenges it faced.
He revealed that some of the individuals who appeared before the panel has started complying with the directives given to them with some stolen properties already returned.
In her address, chairman of the panel, Justice Duruoha Igwe stated that the panel received a total of 350 petitions and memoranda from across the state adding that petitions were served to all affected persons while the proofs of service were documented.
She also revealed that the judicial panel of inquiry contains three parts findings recommendations, processing including interviews,oral evidences and a locus report detailing visits across the state to assess various government properties.
” We were mindful of the fact that history and the people of Abia will judge us harshly if we fail in this onerous task
” I wish to inform you that we did our best in this regard not caring whose ox was gored”.Duruoha said.
She therefore advised Gov Otti to take the findings they made seriously and ensure that necessary actions are taken to address the issues raised in the report.
