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Commissioner clarifies controversy over vehicle procurement, says 12 Toyota Hilux vehicles were purchased for government operations

The Abia State Government spent N1 billion on the procurement of 12 Toyota Hilux vehicles, not two as previously reported, a state commissioner has clarified.

The commissioner made the clarification while responding to public concerns and reports surrounding the government’s expenditure on the vehicles.

According to the commissioner, the N1 billion figure covered the procurement of 12 Toyota Hilux vehicles acquired for official government operations.

The clarification comes amid public scrutiny over government spending and the cost of vehicles purchased with public funds, particularly at a time when citizens are demanding greater transparency and accountability in the management of state resources.

The commissioner explained that the earlier figure of two vehicles was inaccurate, stressing that the government actually procured 12 Toyota Hilux vehicles.

The clarification means that the reported expenditure translates to an average cost of approximately N83.3 million per vehicle, although the total procurement figure may cover associated costs depending on the terms and scope of the purchase.

The development has continued to generate discussion around public procurement, with stakeholders emphasising the need for government agencies to provide adequate explanations for major expenditures and demonstrate value for money.

Government vehicle purchases are typically intended to support official assignments, field operations, inspections, security-related activities and other administrative responsibilities. However, because such purchases are funded from public resources, citizens and civil society organisations often demand clear information on the procurement process, specifications and costs.

The commissioner’s clarification is expected to correct the earlier impression that the N1 billion expenditure was used to purchase only two vehicles.

The Abia State Government is therefore now on record as having spent N1 billion on 12 Toyota Hilux vehicles, according to the commissioner, rather than two vehicles as previously stated.