In a development that has sparked both commendation and concern, Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, former Commissioner for Foreign And International Affairs, has disclosed that the Imo State Government has approved and commenced the payment of ₦5 million each to former appointees who served during the first tenure of Governor Hope Uzodimma (2019–2023).
While there has been no official clarification from the government regarding whether the funds constitute severance allowances, no fewer than six former commissioners have confirmed to Omu, a prominent figure and former appointee, that they have received the ₦5 million disbursement.
Reacting to the development, Omu expressed appreciation to the state leadership for what he described as a “response to the voice of reasoning, guided by rational thought and logic.” However, he was quick to point out that ₦5 million is grossly inadequate as severance for commissioners who served diligently throughout the administration’s first term.
“It is important to state categorically that ₦5 million is way too small for Commissioners as their severance allowance. The Authority may still wish to review and make further payments covering all the allowances due,” Omu said.
He also noted that, at the time of his statement, he had not received any payment himself.
The development is expected to stir further reactions from political stakeholders and former government officials as clarity is awaited from the state government on the nature and scope of the payments.
