By Ekweaga Uzoma
The Anambra State Commissioner for Housing, Arc. Henry Arize, has directed staff of the ministry to ensure that all official files and documents minuted to his office are treated within 24 hours, warning against deliberate delays in the processing of government correspondence.
Arize gave the directive during a meeting with staff of the ministry on November 5, at his office in the Jerome Udoji Secretariat Complex, Awka, following concerns over alleged administrative bottlenecks affecting the timely handling of official documents.
The commissioner expressed displeasure over the development, describing it as an unacceptable practice capable of undermining the ministry’s reputation and achievements. He disclosed that the matter had attracted the attention of the Anambra State Head of Service, Barr. Ngozi Iwuno, making urgent intervention necessary.
Consequently, he directed that all correspondence, mails and files referred to his office must henceforth receive prompt attention and be processed within 24 hours. He added that compliance with the directive would be closely monitored under his supervision.
Recalling his initial engagement with staff after assuming office, Arize said he had convened a meeting to understand their challenges and identify ways of improving productivity. He disclosed that he had purchased 20 high-performance laptops in response to some of the concerns raised, to strengthen their capacity and facilitate efficient discharge of official duties.
He urged staff to promote teamwork, mutual respect and collective responsibility, stressing that the overall interest of the public service must take precedence over personal friendships and individual interests. The commissioner also expressed concern over the delay in submitting the inspection report on the construction of the Aguleri Monarch’s Palace, noting that the document was yet to reach his office.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Tochukwu Obodogha, reminded staff of the provisions of the Civil Service Rules regarding the deliberate withholding or unnecessary delay of official documents. He explained that such conduct constituted serious misconduct and could attract severe disciplinary sanctions, including termination of appointment, depending on the circumstances and applicable regulations.
Obodogha warned officers against actions capable of bringing the ministry into disrepute, emphasising the need for professionalism, accountability and strict compliance with established civil service procedures. He assured that any officer found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with the law.
Contributing, the Director of Building Construction and Maintenance, Bldr. Samuel Ojeleke, attributed the problem to selfishness and greed among some officers, while the Director of Quantity Surveying, QS Edison Obianor, identified carelessness and recklessness as possible causes.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment to discipline, dedication, accountability and improved service delivery, as the ministry seeks to address administrative lapses, consolidate its achievements and strengthen public confidence in its operations.
Ekweaga Uzoma is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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