Ultimatum Issued for Vehicle Recover
The Edo State Government, through the newly appointed Chairman of the Government Assets Recovery Committee, Kelly Okungbowa, has given a 72-hour ultimatum to Asue Ighodalo, the PDP’s candidate in the recent governorship election, along with other party supporters, to return government vehicles they hold. This directive was announced on Tuesday, following the formation of the committee by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Details on Misappropriated Assets
Okungbowa highlighted that vehicles from the now-defunct Edo Line transport company were allegedly sold off and some have been found dismantled in a spare parts market in Benin City. He emphasized the financial impact of these losses, noting the high cost of replacing just one vehicle, like a Hilux, which costs around N120 million.
Appeal for Compliance
The committee chair urged Ighodalo and his running mate to act responsibly by returning the vehicles, stating that these are public assets meant for the benefit of the people of Edo State. He made it clear that the recovery efforts are not intended as a witch-hunt but as a legal obligation to restore these assets to government use.
Governor’s Plan and Discovery
During his campaign, Governor Okpebholo had promised to revive Edo Line. However, upon investigation, no vehicles were found at the company, leading to the discovery of 12 vehicles at Uwelo Spareparts, some of which were inoperative. The governor has already directed that recovered vehicles be reallocated to government agencies.
Final Warning
Okungbowa confirmed that the committee knows the whereabouts of some vehicles, now spread across cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Abeokuta. He issued a stern warning that failure to return the vehicles within the given timeframe would lead to further action by the government.
