An automobile manufacturer in Nigeria, Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing, has responded to allegations made by the Abia State House of Assembly regarding the delay in fulfilling an agreement to produce vehicles for all the lawmakers.
In a press release signed on Friday by the Head of Corporate Communications at Innoson Vehicles, Cornel Osigwe, the company clarified the circumstances surrounding the delay and provided an update on the production process.
“First and foremost, we would like to clarify that the vehicles ordered by the Governor for the Members of the Abia State House of Assembly were special vehicles that required the production of a new frame, which was not previously produced at our factory.
“In accordance with the Governor’s initiative to promote local products, we took this project very seriously and produced a sample for approval by the Governor, Innoson Vehicles stated.
The company further explained that during the approval process, the Governor suggested some remodifications, which they promptly implemented to meet his specified requirements.
“As at today, we would like to inform the public that we have completed all modifications and have addressed any initial defects. The new model vehicles are currently undergoing rigorous testing at our quality control section,” the statement assured.
Innoson Vehicles further provided a timeline for the delivery of the vehicles, stating, “We are pleased to announce that the vehicles will be ready by the end of this month, and the supply will be completed by the beginning of next month.”
Addressing the allegation of non-payment, the company categorically denied receiving any payment for the vehicles ordered for the Abia State House of Assembly Members.
“We want to emphasise that we have not received any payment for the vehicles ordered for the Abia State House of Assembly Members. Innoson Vehicles When His Excellency requested payment, we made a conscious decision not to accept any payment until the vehicles are finally produced and delivered. Therefore, the House of Assembly’s claim that payment has been made is inaccurate,” the statement clarified.
Expressing gratitude to the Abia State Government for their continued support and patronage, Innoson Vehicles reassured them of their commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles. “We want to reassure them that we have taken significant measures to prevent future delays and uphold our commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles,” the statement read.
The company further reaffirmed its dedication to providing excellent products and services to its esteemed customers, stating, “Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing Ltd remains dedicated to providing excellent products and services to our esteemed customers. We appreciate your understanding and patience in this matter.”
On Thursday, the Abia House of Assembly threatened to terminate its contract with Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing Ltd for allegedly reneging on an agreement to produce vehicles for all the lawmakers.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the Speaker of the House, Emmanuel Emeruwa, disclosed this in Umuahia while speaking with reporters as part of activities to mark the first anniversary of the 8th Assembly.
Mr. Emeruwa expressed disappointment that, a year after their inauguration, members still lacked their cars.
The governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, according to the speaker, is trying to promote local content, which is why people choose Innoson vehicles.
The legislator added that Innoson had been given all the funding necessary to manufacture cars for assembly members, but that the company had been denied permission to do so more than 10 times.
“So far, Innoson has not been able to produce or perform its side of the agreement.
“At this point, we are on the verge of terminating that contract and asking for our money back if they don’t perform within the next 15 days.
“This house is very serious about it, and they cannot continue pacifying us after one year,” he said.
