The Edo State Government has launched a crackdown on former officials of the previous administration who allegedly refused to return official vehicles in their custody. Prominent figures, including Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the last election, Osarodion Ogie, a former Secretary to the State Government, and Henry Idogun, a former Executive Chairman of the Edo State Public Procurement Agency, are reportedly on the run.
The trio, along with others, were notably absent at the Edo Governorship Election Tribunal sitting on Wednesday in Benin City, sparking speculation that their absence may be tied to the 72-hour deadline issued by the government to return all vehicles or face prosecution.
Kelly Okungbowa, Chairman of the committee tasked with recovering the vehicles, revealed that over 21 vehicles remain in Ighodalo’s custody, while Idogun is holding onto 11 vehicles. Despite multiple recovery attempts, they have reportedly refused to comply, with Idogun allegedly switching off his phones to evade communication.
Other former officials implicated include Crusoe Osagie, the former Special Adviser on Media Projects, who is accused of holding four cars, and Joan Osa-Oviawe, a former Commissioner for Education, alleged to have three vehicles in her possession.
“The Edo State Government will not relent until all stolen vehicles are recovered from officials, friends, family members, and political associates of the previous administration,” Okungbowa stated.
Ighodalo, who has previously claimed that his election mandate was stolen, has avoided the Tribunal premises, raising questions about his willingness to face justice.
The government has reiterated its warning, emphasized that refusal to comply with the directive will attract severe consequences, including arrests, prosecution, and possible jail terms.
