The Edo State Government has set up a committee to recover over 200 government-owned vehicles reportedly missing from the state’s inventory.
Kelly Okungbowa, chairman of the recovery committee, disclosed this information to journalists on Friday in Benin City, the state capital. The committee has already recovered three vehicles within 24 hours of its inauguration.
Palliatives Found in Recovered Vehicles
One of the recovered vehicles contained bags of rice and garri intended as palliatives from the Federal Government for Edo residents. The discovery highlights the committee’s resolve to retrieve not just vehicles but also misused government resources.
Mandate to Recover Vehicles from Private Custody
The committee, set up by Governor Monday Okpebholo, who recently succeeded the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) administration, is tasked with recovering all government assets still in private hands.
“A lot of vehicles used by the past administration are missing, as those in custody have refused to return them. The governor deemed it necessary to inaugurate us with the mandate to recover all government vehicles in private hands,” Okungbowa explained.
Public Cooperation Needed
Okungbowa urged members of the public to provide information about individuals still in possession of government vehicles.
“We appeal to anyone aware of government vehicles in private custody to inform us. We are determined to complete this task within two weeks and will operate strictly within the law to ensure the state government and its people are satisfied,” he said.
The public can contact the committee directly at 08110165121 to report such cases.
Committee Composition and Statewide Coverage
The committee is chaired by Kelly Okungbowa, with former Edo State House of Assembly Speaker Victor Edoror serving as vice chairman. Members are drawn from across the three senatorial districts of the state to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
The committee emphasized its commitment to transparency, legal compliance, and efficiency as it works to recover the missing vehicles and other state assets.
