C’River: Gov. Otu Suspends DG SEMA
Barely a few months after a series of appointments into his cabinet, the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has ordered the immediate suspension of the Director General of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Chief (Mrs.) Angela Ogeyi Odey.
The suspension was announced in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbeche, on Monday.
The statement, however, did not provide any specific reason for the suspension of Mrs. Odey, who was appointed to the position just a few months ago. This has left many people speculating about the possible reasons behind this sudden decision.
SEMA plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating emergency response efforts in the state.
The agency is responsible for providing relief and support to victims of natural disasters, such as floods, droughts, fire disasters, and other emergencies.
The Director General is tasked with overseeing the agency’s operations and ensuring effective disaster management strategies are in place.
Given the importance of SEMA’s work, the suspension of its Director General raises concerns about the agency’s ability to function effectively during this period.
However, Governor Otu has been known for his commitment to good governance and accountability. His administration has prioritized the welfare and safety of the people of Cross River State.
Therefore, it is expected that the suspension of Chief Odey is based on valid reasons that align with the objectivity, and administration’s policy thrust.
“The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has ordered the immediate suspension of the Director General of Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Chief (Mrs.) Angela Ogeyi Odey,”
In the statement dated Monday, October 30, 2023, the statement further explained that the Director General of SEMA has been directed to hand over to the most senior director in the agency before the close of work today, Monday, October 30, 2023″
“During the period of her suspension, she is requested not to be engaged covertly or overtly, in the administration of the SEMA except otherwise directed by His Excellency,”
“Meanwhile, the removal of the director general of the State Emergency Management Agency comes as the agency begins distributing palliatives to the residents aimed at eliminating the effect caused by Petroleum Subsidies removal. the statement reads.
At the time of filing this article, our reporter could not ascertain whether the suspension of DG SEMA DG had anything to do with the ongoing palliatives distribution in the state.