ABSTRACT

The central idea of this study was to find out the role of public accountants in ensuring accountability. probity and transparency in the Abia state civil service, using Abia stale ministr\ 0! !nance and Abia state Planning commission as a case. Specific objectives of this study were to determine the level of ensuring accountability, probity and transparency by accountants in Abia state civil service, to ascertain whether public accountants in collaboration with their chief executives utilizes judiciously the allocations made to them from the budget and to evaluate if the level of training and years of experience of accountants improves accountability, probity and transparency in the ministry. In the literature review, a lot of government publications and other related materials were consulted. This review was able to define who a public accountant is as well as their role and problems. A public accountant is a person or employee in the public sector who works in the accounts division of any government organization which covers ministry and extra-ministerial department including parastatals at both state and federal levels. Primary and secondary data were used and total of 70 questionnaire were distributed to only senior and management accountants of both ministries and were collected. In the view of the foregoing, three hypotheses ere formulated and tested. The Z-Test anal\ sis technique was used in accepting or rejecting decisions and judgments were made based on 95% confidence level (i.e. 5°/o level of significance). The result of the study revealed that, although public accountants plays a key role in the economy. yet the rate of corruption have not allowed such role to he translated in visual terms. Recommendations therefore includes strong and effective internal control, computerize check and balances. disciplinary measures for defaulters. among others. It is conclusively remarked that. this research will proffer solution to any slate ministry or parastatals internal and external problems if properly implemented.