By Ella Michaels
A fresh wave of fear has pervaded Government House, Owerri, Imo State, following a new wave of sackings by Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma. In the past week, two commissioners have been either indirectly removed or sacked outrightly as members of the state executive council, sending worrying signals to other appointees serving in the present administration. The governor's actions have sparked apprehension and uncertainty among appointed officials, particularly those close to him.
*A Pattern of Sackings*
The governor's decision to sack top aides has raised questions about the stability and security of appointments in his administration. Uzodimma had previously signaled that nobody is indispensable in his administration when he sacked his personal aide, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, before reinstating him as a Special Adviser. Another political ally, Lady Love Inneh, was also sent packing. The recent sackings of Barr C.O.C Akaolisa, the former Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, and the possible removal of Prof Chukwuemeka Ubaka, the Commissioner for Health, have further fueled the fear.
*Appointees on Edge*
The developments have left appointees on edge, with many changing their approaches to work schedules and avoiding acts that may lead to their sack. A source in Government House, Owerri, revealed that the mood is tense, with everyone scared about who will be next. "For the governor to remove Akaolisa means nobody is indispensable in his government," the source added. Appointees are now working to avoid becoming victims of another shake-up, and the atmosphere in Government House is one of fear and apprehension.
*A New Era of Uncertainty*
The sackings have created a sense of uncertainty among appointees, who are now working to navigate the uncertain landscape. The question on everyone's mind is: who will be next? The governor's actions have raised concerns about the stability and security of appointments in his administration, and appointees are left to wonder what the future holds.
*Impact on Governance*
The sackings have also raised concerns about the impact on governance and the effective delivery of services to the people of Imo State. With key officials being removed or sacked, there is a risk of disruption to ongoing projects and initiatives. The governor's decision to merge the Ministry of Health with another Health unit under a newly sworn-in commissioner has also sparked concerns about the potential impact on healthcare delivery in the state.
*Conclusion*
The sackings by Governor Uzodimma have sent a clear message to appointees: nobody is safe. As the governor continues to reshuffle his cabinet, appointees are left to wonder what the future holds. The fear and uncertainty gripping Government House, Owerri, are likely to continue until the governor's intentions are clear. Only time will tell how the governor's actions will impact the stability and effectiveness of his administration.
