In a recent development, the police have arrested the former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Hon. Gerald Irona, over allegations of converting government-owned vehicles into personal use. The vehicles in question includes a Land Cruiser V8, Land Cruiser V5, and a Toyota Hilux.
According to sources, the arrest of Hon. Gerald Irona was made following a petition by the state government which an order of arrest was granted by the High/Magistrate, who had alleged proved evidences that he had converted the government-owned vehicles into his personal use after leaving office. The vehicles were said to have been acquired with public funds for official use during his tenure as Deputy Governor.
The arrest of Hon. Gerald Irona has sent shockwaves through the political circles in Imo State, with many expressing shock and disbelief at the allegations. However, the police have gathered sufficient evidence to prosecute the former Deputy Governor.
Speaking on the matter, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye, stated that the arrest of Hon. Gerald Irona was made following a thorough investigation by the police. He further stated that the former Deputy Governor would be charged to court after the completion of the investigation.
This is coming after several years of calling on the Imo State former Deputy Governor, Hon. Gerald Irona to return all government properties in his possession after leaving office since January 14th, 2020 and has confirmed that state government was committed to fighting corruption in all its forms and that those who had converted government-owned property to personal use must be brought to book.
Meanwhile, there has been mixed reactions from members of the public, with some commending the police for their efforts, while others have expressed skepticism about the motives behind the arrest of the former Deputy Governor. However, the police have maintained that the arrest was made following due process and that justice would be served.