Governor approves N2 billion for purchase of vehicles for self, deputy, days to handover

The Governor of Taraba State, Darius Ishaku, has authorized the allocation of N2 billion towards the acquisition of opulent automobiles for himself, his deputy, and their respective spouses, with a mere 18 days remaining in his term.

A source at the meeting, who asked not to be named for fear of being victimised, told newsmen that the approval was made during the last State Executive Council (SEC) preceded by Mr Ishaku.

During the last SEC meeting, Governor Darius Ishaku submitted a memo requesting the purchase of vehicles for himself, his deputy, and their spouses. The memo was promptly approved without any opposition, as reported by a source.

He said the SEC argued that since Mr Darius and his deputy assumed office in 2019, they have been using old vehicles they inherited from their predecessors, as such, they deserve new vehicles from the state.

According to the information provided by our source, the governor and his spouse are set to receive an amount exceeding N1.3 billion, as indicated in the document presented by the governor. Similarly, the deputy and his spouse have been allocated over N750 million for the same objective.

According to our source, as per the agreement, the governor will receive two Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs, two Toyota Hilux escort vehicles, and a utility vehicle. Similarly, the governor’s wife will be provided with a Land Cruiser SUB and an escort vehicle.

Likewise, the deputy governor, Haruna Manu, is slated to receive two Land Cruiser SUVs of inferior models and one accompanying vehicle, whereas his spouse will be provided with one SUV and a utility car.

When contacted, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Lois Emmanuel, did not deny or confirm the approval.

The speaker explicitly stated that they are not currently present in the state. I embarked on a journey. The speaker concluded the conversation by stating, “I am not currently informed on the matter and will need to verify before providing a response.”

Nonetheless, she was observed a couple of hours later at the inauguration of a residential initiative by the governor in Jalingo, the administrative centre of the state.

Mr Ishaku participated in the most recent senatorial election with the aim of representing Taraba South. However, he was unsuccessful in his bid as he was defeated by the candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), David Jim-Kuta.

His deputy, on the other hand, contested and won the Taraba Central Senatorial seat.