The Imo State Civil Service is grappling with a significant crisis as retired officials, including Permanent Secretaries and Directors, face accusations of unlawfully retaining their positions. This has fueled frustration among junior staff, who are now calling on Governor Hope Uzodimma to address the issue urgently.
Among the allegations is a retired female director from the Ministry of Lands, who officially retired on October 15, 2024, but reportedly continues to serve as head of the Accounts Department. Sources allege she collects ₦1 million monthly as imprest, disregarding a government directive prohibiting service extensions beyond retirement.
This issue extends beyond the Ministry of Lands, with several Permanent Secretaries and officials in other agencies accused of overstaying their tenure. Such practices have raised concerns of systemic corruption and abuse, threatening the integrity of the state’s civil service.
Labor unions and civil servants have condemned this trend, describing it as a “sitting-tight syndrome” that undermines the state’s workforce. Calls are mounting for Governor Uzodimma to enforce retirement policies and restore discipline in the civil service.
Meanwhile, anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), are reportedly gearing up to investigate and prosecute those implicated in tenure violations and financial mismanagement. Stakeholders insist on swift action to prevent further destabilization of the civil service and ensure accountability.
