Nwifuru Orders Mandatory Inspection of Government Vehicles Amid Misuse Allegations

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has ordered a compulsory inspection of all government vehicles allocated to public officials across the state. The directive, issued on Wednesday, mandates that all categories of government appointees—commissioners, senior special assistants, special assistants, permanent secretaries, and board members—physically present their official vehicles to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) for verification. According to the schedule released, principal officers and commissioners are to appear with their vehicles on Friday, August 8, between 10 a.m. and 12 noon. Senior Special Assistants and Permanent Secretaries are slated for Saturday, August 9, while Special Assistants and members of boards and commissions are to comply on Monday, August 11. The move follows widespread social media reports alleging that a serving commissioner sold a government-issued vehicle, allegedly to fund a personal building project. Though not officially confirmed, the incident has raised concerns over the misuse of state resources by public officials. Governor Nwifuru, in response, emphasized the need to uphold transparency and accountability in the management of government assets. He warned that any official who fails to present their vehicle as directed would have their name forwarded to his office for necessary disciplinary action. The government noted that the inspection aims to safeguard public property and prevent further abuse, stressing that official vehicles remain the property of the state and must be used strictly for public service. The development has sparked positive reactions from civil society groups and citizens who see the directive as a necessary step toward curbing corruption and promoting responsible governance.