CALABAR – The Advocates Against Corruption in Public Service in Nigeria has called for an investigation into the Acting Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar, Dr Theo Onyuku, over allegations of falsification of age and employment records.
In a petition addressed to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), through its solicitor Akiki Inam of Compass Attorney, raised concerns about Dr Onyuku’s suitability for the position, citing alleged discrepancies in his personal and service records.
According to the petition, the CMD allegedly presented three different dates of birth: June 20, 1965; June 20, 1967; and June 20, 1968. The group argued that these discrepancies, backed by his nominal roll, service record, and CV, constitute gross misconduct under the 2021 Public Service Rules.
The petition reads in part: “It is a criminal act and a gross misconduct for an employee to present inconsistent dates of birth. Chapter 10, Section 4 of the Public Service Rules, 2021, categorically states that falsification of personal details to enroll on government payment platforms is misconduct. Similarly, Chapter 2, Section 1(ii) emphasises that an officer’s date of birth recorded upon appointment shall remain unchanged throughout their career.”
The NGO further alleged irregularities in Dr Onyuku’s academic and service records. It noted that he was employed as a Resident Doctor in September 1997 but claimed to have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 2003, raising questions about the validity of his appointment.
“The records show that as of September 1, 1997, he was not qualified to be employed as a Resident Doctor. This calls into question the foundation of his employment, which we find morally dubious and criminally questionable,” the petition stated.
The group urged the ministry to investigate and take appropriate action, noting that the public service must be cleansed of individuals with questionable records.
When contacted, Dr Theo Onyuku confirmed awareness of the petition but declined to comment on the allegations. “I am aware of the matter but cannot comment since it is before the ministry for investigation. I am confident the outcome will be made public by February. I believe anyone in a position of authority will face opposition,” he stated.
The Ministry of State for Health and Social Welfare is yet to comment on the matter.
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