The government of Akwa Ibom has turned down 10 used vehicles donated by ExxonMobil for use in the COVID-19 contact tracing in the state.
It however, accepted two ambulances and 20 hospital beds from the oil company.
A statement issued by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Charles Udoh, on Sunday, which disclosed this, said the decision not to accept the used cars was reached at the State COVID-19 Committee meeting on Sunday.
He said the vehicles, after being evaluated, were considered too old and not in good enough operational conditions to withstand the rigors of contact tracing which they were meant to serve.
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“However, the state government has accepted the two ambulances and 20 hospital beds also donated by the oil company, despite the fact that the ambulances are converted buses while the beds are below the standard of those currently in secondary healthcare facilities in the state.
“The Akwa Ibom State Government appreciates the continued support of corporate bodies and private individuals who have so far made cash or other materials donations towards the fight against COVID-19 in the state.
“Citizens and Residents are advised to continue to maintain prescribed safety protocols,” the statement added.
