Edo Govt gives 72-hour ultimatum to Ighodalo, other PDP supporters to return State vehicles
..As asset recovery committee swings into action, decries cost of new vehicles
..Says misused Govt vehicles will be reallocated for public good
The Edo State Government has issued a strong directive to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the recent governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, and other prominent party members to return all government vehicles currently in their possession within 72 hours.
This follows the establishment of an assets recovery committee by Governor Monday Okpebholo, tasked with retrieving government assets, including vehicles, still held by private individuals.
On Tuesday, Chairman of the committee, Kelly Okungbowa, issued the ultimatum, emphasising the need for the immediate return of the vehicles.
Okungbowa revealed that some vehicles belonging to the now-defunct government transport company, Edo Line, had allegedly been sold and were recently discovered in a spare parts market in Benin City, the state capital.
“We are using this opportunity to appeal to those whose names have been mentioned to return the vehicles to the authorities, as they are not personal property. These vehicles belong to the state government and the people of Edo,” he said.
“We all understand the cost of acquiring such vehicles. For example, a brand new Hilux can cost no less than N120 million. Where would the governor find such a sum to buy new vehicles?”
The committee chairman also specifically appealed to Ighodalo, the PDP candidate, and his running mate, urging them to act responsibly and return the vehicles.
“As a father and leader in the state, I advise them to do the right thing and return the vehicles,” Okungbowa added.
He further noted that any recovered vehicles had already been reallocated to relevant state agencies as directed by the governor.
The committee also named several officials from the previous administration who are alleged to still be in possession of government vehicles.
The committee reiterated that all vehicles should be returned within the next 72 hours.
