Rivers Government Clarifies Vehicle Retrieval from Suspended Deputy Governor’s Residence

The Rivers Government has offered a detailed explanation regarding the recent retrieval of three official vehicles—two Toyota Hilux trucks and one Hiace bus—from the residence of suspended Deputy Governor, Dr. Ngozi Ordu. In a statement released on Wednesday, the administration emphasized that the move was a standard administrative procedure, not a politically motivated action as some have claimed.

According to the government, the retrieval was part of a wider effort to secure state-owned assets in line with existing protocols and financial accountability mandates. The vehicles, the statement said, had been retained by the suspended deputy governor long after the declaration of a political emergency in the state, a development that made their continued presence at her premises “unjustifiable and inappropriate.”

“What legitimate purpose did these vehicles serve in the suspended Deputy Governor’s premises over a month after the declaration of a state of emergency?” the statement questioned, pointing to what it described as the irresponsible efforts of “political opportunists” to distort the event for public misdirection.

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No Abuse of Power, Government Insists

The Rivers State Government strongly refuted claims of executive overreach, asserting that the retrieval of the vehicles adhered strictly to administrative norms. The statement underlined that all actions taken were consistent with the state’s legal authority to protect and manage its assets responsibly.

“The recovery of state property should not be misinterpreted as a misuse of executive powers,” the statement read. “Rather, it exemplifies our unwavering commitment to prudent resource management and good governance.”

This official explanation comes amidst a flurry of media attention and political commentary alleging that the government’s action was driven by partisan interests, particularly considering the high-profile suspension of Deputy Governor Ngozi Ordu. However, the state government urged the public to remain critical of such narratives, which it described as sensationalized and deliberately misleading.

Reiterating Commitment to Governance and Accountability

In defending its decision, the Rivers State Government stressed that its focus remains on restoring stability, maintaining law and order, and ensuring that public assets are neither misused nor converted for personal benefit. The administration stated that it has tolerated numerous provocations with remarkable restraint and warned against any further attempts to undermine its authority.

“Our patience should not be mistaken for weakness,” the statement added. “We remain fully committed to lawful governance and will not hesitate to enforce regulations designed to safeguard public resources.”

The government also highlighted that the timing and context of the retrieval have been deliberately twisted by certain individuals who seek to stoke political controversy where none exists. It clarified that the vehicles were retrieved only after a comprehensive review of government property allocations revealed their prolonged and unauthorized retention at the deputy governor’s residence.

Public Urged to Remain Focused on Development Goals

As part of its message to citizens, the government encouraged the public to ignore false narratives and instead concentrate on the administration’s ongoing initiatives to promote development and institutional reform. It reaffirmed its pledge to pursue a transparent and accountable governance structure that prioritizes the collective interest of Rivers residents.

“Rivers people deserve stability, progress, and a leadership that is focused on results—not one mired in distractions or driven by personal grievances,” the statement noted. “We urge everyone to focus on the bigger picture, which is building a stronger, more resilient state.”

The statement concluded with a call for unity, emphasizing the need for responsible political discourse, especially in a period marked by heightened tensions and political sensitivity. It asked all stakeholders, including political figures and the media, to refrain from spreading half-truths and instead contribute to the peace-building process underway in the state.

With this explanation, the Rivers State Government hopes to put to rest the growing speculation surrounding the vehicle retrieval and refocus attention on its broader agenda of restoring order, protecting public property, and fostering governance rooted in integrity.