Rivers State Government has responded to public criticisms against the retrieval of three official vehicles from the residence of the suspended Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu.
In a statement on Wednesday evening, the government said the withdrawal was a routine administrative measure that has been “deliberately misrepresented” by political actors.
In the press statement made by the Office of the Sole Administrator, the government confirmed that two Toyota Hilux vehicles and one Hiace bus were recovered from the premises of the embattled Deputy Governor. The move, it said, was necessary for the protection and proper management of government property.
“Rivers State Government has noted with dismay the deliberate misrepresentation of the lawful retrieval of two Toyota Hilux vehicles and one Hiace bus from the premises of the suspended Deputy Governor,” the statement read. “This routine administrative action… has been twisted by political opportunists seeking to create unnecessary tension.”
Signed by Hector Igbikiowubo, the Senior Special Adviser on Media, the statement questioned why the vehicles remained in the possession of the Deputy Governor over a month after a state of emergency was declared in the state.
While dismissing allegations of executive overreach, the government emphasized that it remains focused on accountability and the prudent use of public resources. “This administration remains committed to prudent management of public resources and will not be distracted by baseless allegations,” Igbikiowubo stated.
The government also issued a stern warning to what it called “mischief makers” intent on destabilizing the current administration through false narratives. It called for public restraint and urged citizens to ignore sensationalized versions of the incident.
“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 statement concluded.
