Edo Govt Issues 72-Hour Ultimatum to PDP Candidate Ighodalo, Others Over Missing Vehicles

By: Philip Adeboye

The Edo State Government has given the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate, Asue Ighodalo, and his associates a 72-hour deadline to return government vehicles allegedly in their possession.

Kelly Okungbowa, Chairman of the Government Assets Recovery Committee, made this known on Tuesday during a press briefing in Benin City.

Okungbowa explained that some vehicles belonging to the defunct Edo Line transport company were illegally removed and traced to a spare parts market in Benin City. He described the situation as unacceptable, given the significant cost of acquiring new vehicles.

“We want to appeal to those involved, including the PDP candidate, Barrister Asue Ighodalo, and his running mate, to return the vehicles,” Okungbowa said. “These vehicles are government property meant for the benefit of Edo people. Today, purchasing a new vehicle, such as a Hilux, costs about N120 million. It is unfair to burden the government with such expenses when these vehicles can be recovered.”

He revealed that the government, acting on intelligence, had already recovered 12 vehicles at the Uwelo Spare Parts Market, with six in working condition and six beyond immediate use.

“During the governor’s campaign, he promised to revamp Edo Line. However, when we inspected the premises, there were no vehicles. Investigations led us to Uwelo Spare Parts Market, where we discovered 12 vehicles. Some were functional, while others were not. We have video evidence to support our findings,” he said.

While clarifying that the committee’s actions are not targeted at any individual or group, Okungbowa emphasized that the government would take appropriate action if the vehicles were not returned within the given timeframe.

“We are not here to witch-hunt anyone. We are acting according to the law. Some of these vehicles were even moved to Lagos, Abuja, and Abeokuta, but we are appealing to those responsible to do the right thing.

“We are giving them 72 hours to return the vehicles. If they fail to comply, the government will be left with no choice but to take necessary action,” Okungbowa added.

The Edo State Government reiterated its commitment to accountability and safeguarding public assets, urging all concerned parties