Kehinde Fajobi
The Edo State Vehicle Recovery Committee has retrieved 30 government-owned vehicles from former officials of the previous administration, Chairman Kelly Okungbowa announced on Thursday.
In a statement released by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Okungbowa credited whistleblowers for providing crucial information that aided the recoveries.
Among the recovered assets were four vehicles found at the residence of a former high-ranking official and another retrieved from a different individual.
“We have recovered two Land Cruiser Jeeps and two Toyota Hilux vehicles from a former high-ranking official of the immediate past government. One of the vehicles contained campaign posters and umbrellas,” Okungbowa stated.
He added, “Another Hilux vehicle was also recovered, bringing the total number of vehicles retrieved since our operation began to 30.”
The chairman assured residents that more recoveries would be made before the two-week deadline set for the committee to complete its task.
“We appeal to the public for more information to aid our operations. Whistleblowers have been instrumental to our success, and we are committed to rewarding anyone who provides helpful tips,” he said.
Okungbowa also emphasised the committee’s readiness to extend its search nationwide to recover government vehicles wherever they might be found.
Last Friday, the committee recovered three additional vehicles, including one Hilux van and two Toyota Hiace buses. One of the buses contained bags of rice meant for palliatives that were reportedly designated for distribution to Edo residents.
The chairman reiterated the committee’s commitment to ensuring that all state-owned assets are accounted for and returned to the government.