The Abia State Judicial Panel of Inquiry overseeing the retrieval of government assets and funds has unearthed additional findings, including the recovery of a Toyota Hilux van allegedly transferred to the former Accountant General of the State, Kelechi Imeoria, by the past administration under Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
Led by Chairperson Justice Florence Duruoha-Igwe, the panel ordered that the vehicle in question be held at their premises for thorough investigation, despite Imeoria’s assertion that it was given to him as a terminal benefit during his service on an economic advisory project during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also, the panel recently retrieved a Lexus Jeep from a retired Permanent Secretary, Alozie Odoemelam, who claimed to have purchased it at auction.
However, Justice Duruoha-Igwe highlighted the lack of substantial evidence to support his claim, prompting further scrutiny.
Furthermore, the panel directed the immediate closure of an oil processing mill owned by John Chigbu, pending a thorough inquiry into its operations.
Chigbu defended himself, stating that the mill was established through agreements with corporate entities for land usage.
Meanwhile, Abia State’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Professor Monica Ironkwe, raised concerns about the absence of adequate documentation in her ministry regarding leased farm plantations and agricultural sub-stations.
She called for the panel’s assistance in recovering these assets allegedly held by individuals and corporate organizations.
The ongoing investigations underscore the panel’s commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing past irregularities within the state’s administration.
