Kogi state opposition leader and human rights advocate, Comrade Usman Okai, has asked Governor Usman Ododo to curb what he describes as the “unchecked and excessive powers” of the stateâs Accountant General, Dr Habiba Onumoko.
In a statement made available to TimesNow.com.ng on Tuesday, February 11, Okai accused the accountant general of overstepping her constitutional role, alleging financial mismanagement and undue interference in governance.
He warned that her growing influence, if not properly checked, could threaten transparency, accountability, and the welfare of civil servants in Kogi state.
Okai claimed that the Accountant Generalâs alleged interference extended to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the Ministry of Finance, reportedly leaving other government officials sidelined.
He further alleged that she has taken over the responsibilities of both the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the Ministry of Finance, leaving other government officials “helpless.”
The opposition leader also raised concerns about financial accountability, claiming that the Accountant General wields significant control over the disbursement of public funds, often to the detriment of workers and pensioners.
He called for immediate financial reforms, including independent oversight mechanisms, to prevent what he described as “abuse of office and financial recklessness.”
The political analysts suggest that growing concerns over financial irregularities could impact the administrationâs credibility.
Comrade Usman Okai has been a vocal critic of the state government, consistently advocating for transparency and accountability. His latest statement adds to mounting concerns about governance and fiscal discipline under Governor Ododoâs leadership.
Read more about Kogi, Okai stories here:
In another development, TimesNow.com.ng reported that Comrade Usman Okai Austin sent a crucial message to Kogi Governor Usman Ododo following his victory at the Supreme Court.
Okai urged Governor Ododo to prioritise workers welfare and distanced himself from the previous administrationâs divisive tactics.
In an exclusive chat with TimesNow.com.ng, the PDP chieftain reacted to the attack on SDP’s candidate Muritala Ajaka at the Supreme Court premises.
Source: TimesNow.com.ng