Major Discovery of Ghost Workers
The Anambra State Local Government Service Commission has identified over 427 ghost workers who have been illegally drawing salaries. This revelation was announced by Vin Ezeaka, Chairman of the Commission, during a press briefing in Awka.
Details of the Ghost Workers
The audit revealed that 59 deceased employees, 40 retirees, and 11 individuals living abroad were still on the payroll as ghost workers. Additionally, officials could not identify 222 workers listed on the payroll as employees in any of the state’s 21 local government areas.
Fake Certificates and Further Investigations
The audit also found that six senior employees had forged their certificates, falsely claiming Imo State University issued them. The Commission is conducting thorough investigations to validate the authenticity of all certificates presented by local government staff.
Actions Taken Against Culprits
Ezeaka stated that the Commission has written to the Joint Account Committee to remove these ghost workers from the payroll. He emphasized that those involved in these fraudulent activities will face legal consequences according to civil service rules.
Ongoing Efforts to Cleanse the System
The Commission remains committed to sanitising the local government system. The Commission formed a committee to screen and verify employee qualifications, aiming to eliminate fraudulent practices and employ only qualified personnel.
Commitment to Accountability
Vin Ezeaka reiterated the Commission’s dedication to maintaining integrity and accountability within the local government system. He assured that any individual found guilty of manipulating the system would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
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