The Akwa Ibom State Government has rejected 10 old, used vehicles donated by ExxonMobil for use in the COVID-19 contact tracing in the state.

According to the state Commissioner for Information, Charles Udoh, “the decision was taken at the State COVID-19 Committee meeting following an evaluation of the vehicles and other donations to the state by the oil company. The vehicles are considered too old and not in good enough operational conditions to withstand the rigours of contact tracing which they were meant to serve.

“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.”