The Judicial Panel of Inquiry tasked with the Recovery of Government Properties and Funds belonging to Abia State Government has emphasized its determination to fully utilize its authority, which includes the ability to summon individuals across Nigeria, to effectively carry out its responsibilities.
Chairing the panel, Justice Florence Duruoha-Igwe (rtd.), conveyed this commitment during the panel’s inaugural session in Umuahia. She urged the general public to present petitions and memoranda to aid the panel in fulfilling its duties appropriately.
Justice Duruoha-Igwe (rtd.) clarified that while the panel operates in a quasi-judicial capacity, it is not a court. The panel will operate based on the petitions and memoranda submitted by the public and subsequently offer well-informed recommendations to the Governor.
To address any misconceptions, she reassured that the panel’s purpose is not to target individuals for witch-hunting, but rather to conduct its tasks impartially without preconceived notions of guilt.
The panel’s proceedings will be open to the public and will be conducted between Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Abia State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna, stressed that the state has experienced significant cases of looting. He emphasized that by addressing these issues, the State can move forward and make progress. He encouraged the public to courageously provide the necessary information to support the panel’s success and extended gratitude to the members for accepting their roles.
During the session, the panel’s Chairperson conducted the swearing-in ceremony for the newly nominated panel member, Dr. Chukwuemeka Okwuonu, who replaced a former member.
Justice Duru-Oha Igwe concluded the session by adjourning the panel’s proceedings until the following Tuesday.
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