Auto firm decries govt hurdles delaying $100m investment

US-based Nigerian entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Asper Autos Online Auction, Saheed Ashogbon, has lamented what he described as repeated frustrations and pushbacks from government authorities over his planned $100m automotive-related investment in Nigeria.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Monday, Ashogbon expressed disappointment over the lack of official response to his efforts to establish the facility, which he said is aimed at addressing the growing problem of abandoned and indiscriminately parked vehicles on Nigerian roads.

The Asper Autos chief said he sent multiple letters to state and federal government officials but got no response.

“I am disappointed. I have written 14 letters to Sanwo-Olu and some other South-West governors and even the president, but I got no response, and I have changed tactics, and that is what we are doing now. So instead of mopping up and taken those cars to a location, and particularly cars parked by the roads with kegs on them looking for buyers, they will remain where they are while we snap them and post them on our website with the intention to sell them off the roads,” he stated.

He explained that his original plan required government backing, particularly access to land, noting that he needed about 50 hectares in Lagos to commence full operations.

“I had proposed to buy 50 acres of land with different sections of car dealings, with a particular section called ‘impound’ where abandoned cars on Lagos roads will be moved to. This happened everywhere in the world. Abroad, if you indiscriminately park your car, a towing vehicle will come there to pick up your car, and you will have to bail it with money when you are ready. This is part of the sanity which we have mastered and decided to bring to our own country too.

“Unlike what we have across our stations today, where government officials impound cars and the parts begin to go missing, no, we are professionals, and that is why we are investing hugely.”