Chinedu Ekeke, the deputy chief of staff to the governor of Abia, has revealed why the state government opted for Toyota Hilux vans instead of Innoson trucks.
Governor Alex Otti has been heavily criticised for buying the Hilux vans for joint security operatives in the state.
Ekeke, however, noted that the decision was made due to the situation’s urgency.
He wrote:
”We have read the comments on social media about the Toyota Hilux vans the Abia state government bought for a special security operation named: Operation Crush.
”We appreciate the feedback, especially as most commenters are coming from a place of love for the country and support for the Alex Otti administration.
”The administration appreciates, more than anyone else, the need to patronise locally made goods.
”And this was why we had, upon assuming office, ordered more than 50 units of cars from the Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company. We currently have 20 unmet orders.
”As we talk, some commissioners do not even have official vehicles. The governor’s official car is yet to be delivered. He still uses his private cars as a sitting governor.
”The military service commanders in Abia needed trucks for immediate take-off of the special operation, and, unfortunately, Innoson had no such vehicles in stock. The government could not delay the operation as it places premium on the lives and property of all Abians.”
He stated that the government was constrained by time and had to go for what was readily available.
“This does not foreclose any prospect of future transactions with Innoson or any other local brand,” he added.
He also noted that the state government is always open to honest feedback.
”We will always listen and respond. And even if we disagree with your perspective, we will still respond,” he said.