The Edo State Government has announced a 72-hour deadline for Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate from the recent gubernatorial election, along with other party supporters, to return government vehicles currently in their possession.
The order was issued by Kelly Okungbowa, the newly appointed Chairman of the Government Assets Recovery Committee, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo. This committee was established to reclaim government assets, including vehicles that remain in the hands of private individuals.
In a statement to the press on Monday, Okungbowa revealed that some vehicles belonging to the defunct Edo Line transport company had reportedly been sold and were recently located in a spare parts market in Benin City, the capital of Edo State.
“We urge those individuals mentioned to return the vehicles to the authorities, as they are not personal property,” he stated. “These vehicles belong to the state government and are intended for the people of Edo. The cost of acquiring a single vehicle is substantial; for instance, a brand-new Hilux can cost upwards of N120 million. It raises questions about how the governor would finance the purchase of new vehicles.”
Okungbowa specifically appealed to Barrister Asue Ighodalo and his running mate, emphasizing the importance of returning the vehicles. “As a leader and father figure in the state, I advise them to act responsibly and return the vehicles,” he added.
He further noted that the governor had directed the reallocation of recovered vehicles to various agencies. During his electoral campaign, Governor Okpebholo had pledged to revitalize Edo Line, but upon inspection, no vehicles were found. Following intelligence reports, the committee discovered approximately 12 vehicles at Uwelo Spareparts, of which six were operational while six were not.
“While we extend our appeal, the government will also take necessary actions on its end. Our goal is not to target anyone unjustly; we are fulfilling our legal responsibilities,” Okungbowa clarified. He acknowledged awareness of where some vehicles are stored, mentioning locations in Lagos, Abuja, and Abeokuta, and reiterated the call for compliance with due process.
The committee has also identified officials from the previous administration who are believed to still possess government vehicles and has urged them to return these assets within the stipulated 72 hours.
“We are granting an additional 72 hours for compliance. Failure to do so will result in appropriate measures being taken,” he concluded.
