Nigeria: Agriculture commissioner suspended amid greenhouse projects infractions probe

Nigeria: Agriculture commissioner suspended amid greenhouse projects infractions probe

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Nigerian Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has taken decisive action against alleged infractions by the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources in the implementation of a greenhouse project. The governor ordered the immediate suspension of the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources and directed a seven-man panel to conduct a thorough probe into the allegations. In addition, the Permanent Secretary of the agricultural ministry, the Assistant Director of agricultural Engineering, and the Chief Accountant of the ministry were placed on compulsory leave until further notice in accordance with civil service rules.

Governor Oborevwori’s decision was communicated through a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu. The suspension and compulsory leave were prompted by the interim report of a committee reviewing the Greenhouse project’s implementation. The governor emphasized that the actions taken were not a presumption of guilt but aimed at ensuring an unbiased and uninfluenced investigation.

To facilitate unimpeded access to information during the investigation, the seven-man panel, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, will delve into the claims and perceived infractions related to the management of the Greenhouse project by the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The government’s move underscores its commitment to upholding the sanctity of the investigative process and preventing any potential for undue influence or bias. The suspension and compulsory leave are temporary measures taken to maintain the integrity of the ongoing inquiry.

Read the full article at punchng.com

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