Gov Nnwifuru Inaugurates Anti-Corruption Board, Warns Against Selective Justice

The Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has inaugurated the board of the state’s Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, charging its members to operate with absolute integrity, impartiality, and strict adherence to the law.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony at Government House in Abakaliki, Governor Nwifuru issued a stern warning that the crusade against graft must remain objective, fair, and completely free from personal or political interests.

“Corruption will always fight back whenever you confront it. However, if you maintain a sincere, focused, diligent, and objective approach, you will leave little to no room for corrupt practices to thrive.”

The Governor broadened the definition of systemic corruption, cautioning that graft extends far beyond the conventional diversion or mismanagement of public funds.

“Corruption is not limited to financial misappropriation alone. Administrative misconduct, abuse of office, preferential treatment, manipulation of official procedures, and irregular postings or promotions without due process are all potent forms of corruption that destroy the public service.”

Established under the state’s 2023 law, the Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission is mandated to enforce accountability, investigate administrative injustice, and scrutinize activities across all state ministries, departments, agencies, and parastatals.

Recognising the practical limits of executive oversight, Governor Nwifuru noted that no chief executive can single-handedly monitor every government activity or detect every administrative shortfall.

He expressed optimism that the newly constituted board would bridge this gap by examining citizens’ complaints and recommending systemic reforms to improve public service delivery.

Pledging total non-interference, the Governor assured the board of his administration’s backing and institutional independence.

“For an anti-corruption agency to succeed, it must be allowed to function without fear, favor, or executive pressure.:

“You have my full backing to execute your statutory mandate without interference—even when activities close to government come under scrutiny.”