The Edo State Government has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the last governorship election, and other individuals to return government vehicles in their possession.
The directive was announced on Tuesday by Kelly Okungbowa, Chairman of the Government Assets Recovery Committee, established by Governor Monday Okpebholo. The committee was tasked with retrieving government assets, including vehicles allegedly withheld by private individuals or improperly sold.
Okungbowa revealed that several vehicles, previously part of the defunct government transport company Edo Line, were discovered in a spare parts market in Benin City. Twelve vehicles were located, with six in usable condition. He emphasized that the vehicles were government property meant for the benefit of Edo residents and should be returned immediately.
“We are appealing to Barrister Asue Ighodalo, his running mate, and others to do the right thing and return these vehicles,” Okungbowa said. He noted the high cost of replacing the vehicles, citing that a brand new Hilux now costs approximately ₦120 million, making recovery efforts crucial.
Recovered vehicles have already been reassigned to government agencies as directed by Governor Okpebholo. The administration reiterated its commitment to revamping Edo Line, a promise made during the governor’s election campaign.
Okungbowa warned that if the vehicles were not returned within the 72-hour window, the government would take further action to enforce compliance. He clarified that the recovery process was not a witch hunt but a legal effort to reclaim state assets.
The committee also disclosed that some vehicles had been moved to locations outside Edo State, including Lagos, Abuja, and Abeokuta, but urged all involved to follow due process and return the assets.
The government’s appeal comes amid broader efforts to ensure accountability and efficient resource management in the state.
