The retrieval of some vehicles assigned to the suspended Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu by Rivers State Government drew flaks some quarters yesterday.
The Democracy Watch Nigeria (DWN) first raised the alarm and said the operation to recover the vehicles was carried out on April 25 by some Naval personnel.
DWN spokesperson Vincent Wopara, said “the naval officers, acting on the direct instruction of the Sole Administrator, carried out the operation in a commando-style raid, taking away two Toyota Hilux vehicles and one Toyota Hiace Bus.
“The brazen action took place in the early hours of the day and has since sparked widespread condemnation across the state.”
But the government said there was nothing to the withdrawal of the vehicles, describing the action as routine to protect public properties.
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It said the action had been deliberately misrepresented by some persons insisting that the retrieval of the two Toyota Hilux vehicles and one Hiace bus from the premises of the suspended deputy governor was lawful.
A statement signed by the Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas’ Senior Special Assistant (SSA) Media, Hector Igbikiowubo, described the action as a routine aimed at securing government property.
He lamented that it had been twisted by political opportunists seeking to create unnecessary tension.
The statement reads: “We question the motives of those politicizing this matter: what legitimate purpose did these vehicles serve in the suspended deputy governor’s premises over one month after the declaration of a state of emergency?
“The Rivers State Government maintains that the recovery of its assets cannot reasonably be construed as executive overreach. This administration remains committed to prudent management of public resources and will not be distracted by baseless allegations.
“We urge all parties to exercise restraint and refrain from testing the resolve of an administration that has demonstrated remarkable patience in the face of persistent provocation.
“The public is advised to disregard sensationalized accounts of this incident and focus instead on the government’s ongoing efforts to restore stability and good governance in Rivers State.”