Appointed in March 2024 by Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Mrs. Achugbu is one of the newest permanent secretaries in the state. Reports indicate that the clash between her and Mrs. Nkem took place at their workplace over an undisclosed issue, escalating into a physical confrontation.

During the altercation, Mrs. Achugbu allegedly strangled Mrs. Nkem, leaving her in a critical condition. The severity of the injuries required Mrs. Nkem to be rushed to the Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (Amaku General Hospital) for emergency treatment.

The incident took place at the state ministry located within the Dora Akunyili Development Centre. It required the immediate intervention of the state Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, to temporarily restore order between the two senior officials.

This disturbing incident has raised concerns about the working environment within the ministry, with sources claiming that physical altercations among staff members have occurred multiple times in the past.

Reacting to the situation, the Head of Service, Theodora Igwegbe, stated that she had learned about the incident through social media on Friday, August 23, 2024, but had not yet received an official report. She assured that appropriate action would be taken once an investigation into the matter is concluded.

"I saw the report on social media, but I am yet to be formally briefed. Rest assured, action will be taken based on the findings of a thorough investigation," Igwegbe stated.