Following the suspension of several top appointees in Ebonyi State for failing to attend a key government function, fresh details have emerged clarifying the actual event in question and debunking viral reports suggesting it was related to a private celebration.
Recall that on July 26, the Ebonyi State Government issued a public announcement directing certain commissioners, senior aides, and coordinators to proceed on one-month suspension without salary for their absence at what was described as an “important government function.” At the time, no specific details about the event were made public.
In the absence of an official explanation, online speculations grew, with one widely circulated post alleging that the suspension was tied to the birthday celebration of the Governor’s last child. This narrative has now been refuted by the Governor’s Special Assistant on Media, Leo Ekene Oketa.
In a public clarification, Oketa stated that the Governor’s official engagement, was a state-recognized funeral at Abofia in Ebonyi Local Government Area. The Governor, who had intended to attend after returning from Abuja, experienced flight delays and subsequently delegated his Deputy to represent him.
“All government officials were directed to be present,” Oketa confirmed, adding that the SSA to the Governor on State Affairs had earlier sent out a notification mandating attendance and ensuring records would be taken.
“Yesterday at the office, the Governor requested for the attendance and directed the suspension of those who were not in attendance,” Oketa wrote.
This clarification aligns with ongoing concerns within government circles over the conduct of some appointees during official functions. Sources say this is not the first instance where officials have reportedly ignored invitations—especially when the Deputy Governor represents the Governor—raising questions about protocol and institutional respect.
An earlier op-ed published by ENN had called on the state government to provide clarity on the nature of the function to uphold transparency and prevent misinformation. With the clarification now made public, observers hope the disciplinary action serves as a reset for ethical conduct among Ebonyi’s political appointees.
The suspended officials are expected to return to duty at the end of August, barring further instructions.
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