Breaking;Late to Work? Soludo Suspends Absent Civil Servants in Awka Secretariat Raid

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has ordered the immediate suspension of civil servants found absent from duty after 10 a.m.

, following a surprise inspection of the state secretariat in Awka.
The governor conducted an on-the-spot assessment across ministries and departments on Thursday, reviewing workers’ punctuality, conduct, and overall commitment. Speaking to journalists after the visit, Soludo warned that absenteeism and poor work ethic would no longer be tolerated.
“I walked office by office, and a significant number of workers were not at their posts as at past 10 a.m. This is unacceptable. The ‘bad eggs’ will be fished out because Anambra is an A-state and cannot afford an inefficient civil service,” he said.
Describing his findings as a mix of “the good, the bad and the ugly,” the governor commended diligent workers but expressed disappointment at the level of absenteeism among some staff. He stressed that the state government remains committed to building a disciplined, agile, and result-oriented workforce.
“Firm measures will be taken to check these attitudes in the civil service. Our administration has invested heavily in improving infrastructure and working conditions at the secretariat. Workers should reciprocate with dedication and productivity,” he added.
The suspension directive applies to any civil servant who failed to report for duty by 10 a.m., with salaries to be withheld until further notice. The move underscores the administration’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency and enforcing accountability within the Anambra civil service.
Officials explained that the surprise inspection forms part of broader efforts to institutionalize discipline and enhance productivity among state workers. The governor’s action aligns with several initiatives introduced in recent years to improve service delivery and ensure that public servants contribute effectively to the state’s development.
Background on Reforms
Since assuming office, Governor Soludo has prioritized modernizing the civil service through targeted reforms, including investments in office infrastructure, provision of modern tools, and capacity-building programmes for staff.
Despite these efforts, absenteeism and poor performance among some workers have persisted, prompting stricter enforcement measures. The surprise visit, officials noted, is intended to send a clear message that punctuality, commitment, and accountability are non-negotiable.
Soludo also emphasized the importance of a disciplined workforce in achieving the state’s broader development agenda, which includes improved public service efficiency, attracting investments, and accelerating socio-economic growth.
“This is not about punishing workers arbitrarily; it is about setting standards and expectations,” he said. “A well-disciplined civil service ensures that policies and projects are implemented effectively, and citizens receive the services they deserve.”
Reactions from Workers and the Public
While some civil servants raised concerns over the suspension directive, others welcomed it as a necessary step toward accountability. Observers noted that strict enforcement of punctuality and performance standards could boost morale among hardworking staff and reduce inefficiency.
Members of the public, who depend on civil servants for essential services, also praised the move. A resident of Awka remarked that decisive leadership like this would encourage workers to take their responsibilities more seriously.
Looking Ahead
Governor Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a disciplined, efficient, and responsive civil service in Anambra. Officials disclosed that similar surprise inspections would continue across ministries and departments to ensure compliance and translate reforms into tangible improvements in service delivery.
“This is part of a broader vision to professionalize the civil service, reward hard work, and ensure accountability at all levels,” the governor stated. “We have invested in our workforce, and now it is time for them to match that with commitment and performance.”
The directive serves as a clear warning to state employees that punctuality, dedication, and efficiency remain central to the administration’s governance agenda, as Anambra positions itself as a model for development and public sector reform.