*Abia State, Nigeria – September 1, 2023* –
In the midst of the severe economic crisis following the removal of fuel subsidies, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has issued a directive for the immediate termination of employment for all workers hired in the State Public Service from December 2022 until the present.
The governor’s decision to terminate the employment of approximately 7,000 workers was initially announced by his commissioner for information. However, the governor did not provide specific reasons for this action. The directive was conveyed in a memorandum dated August 31, 2023, and signed by the Head of Service, Lady Joy I. Maduka. The memo, with reference number HSA/S.0006/IV/08, was titled “Disengagement Of Staff Employed From December 2022 Till Date.”
The memorandum was addressed to various government officials, including Commissioners, Heads of Ministries, Development Agencies, Parastatals, and other relevant authorities.
Part of the memo stated, “Following the ongoing reorganization in the Abia State Public Service and in line with the provision of the Abia State Public Service Rules nos 02801 and 02803, I write to inform you that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Abia State has directed the disengagement of all staff employed into the Abia State Public Service from December 2022 till date.”
It also mentioned that any further directives on this matter from the governor would be communicated at a later time.
The governor’s decision to terminate the employment of workers comes amid the challenging economic circumstances in Nigeria, particularly following the removal of fuel subsidies, which has led to increased living costs and economic difficulties for many citizens.
