Lokoja, Kogi State – In a surprising turn of events, opposition figure and activist, Comrade Usman Okai Austin, has publicly retracted an earlier claim made against the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo, regarding the alleged diversion of N13.4 billion meant for local government development.
Okai, who made the initial allegation alongside Comrade Okpanachi Jacob and Peter Onuma during a press briefing last month, formally withdrew the claim in a letter addressed to the Governor, which he signed and made available to the public.
In the letter, titled “Formal Retraction of Media Statement Regarding Alleged Diversion of N13.4 Billion,” Okai acknowledged that the claim was based on inaccurate information and misrepresented the actual figure disbursed by the state government. According to him, after a thorough review and engagement with relevant authorities, it became clear that the actual amount in question was N3 billion—not N13.4 billion as earlier alleged.
“Upon further review and diligent comparison of the relevant facts, particularly those provided by the State Government concerning the disbursement of funds intended for local government development,” Okai wrote, “I came to the realization after much briefing and clarification of the significant discrepancies in the information upon which the previous statement was based on at the material time.”
Okai also confirmed that the state government had provided documentation outlining the approved sharing formula of the N3 billion released funds, copies of which he attached to his retraction letter.
Expressing regret over any confusion or damage caused by the initial press conference, Okai offered an unreserved apology to Governor Ododo, the state government, and the people of Kogi State.
“I hereby apologise on behalf of myself, Okpanachi Jacob, and Peter Onuma, who were invited as part of the press conference and withdraw the said statement in its entirety,” he stated.
“We have no personal animosity, hatred, or ill feelings towards your Government, Personality, Tribe, or any member of your family. We hold your Excellency, Governor Usman Ododo, in high regard as the duly elected Governor of our esteemed state.”
He emphasized that their role as opposition voices was never to create division but to contribute to the democratic process by holding leaders accountable.
“This retraction is made in good faith, and we deeply regret any distress or harm the previous remarks may have caused to your Excellency, the administration, or the good people of Kogi State,” the letter concluded.
This development has sparked reactions from political observers, some of whom have commended Okai for taking the “honourable and reconciliatory path,” while others await the next move from the Governor’s camp.
Governor Usman Ododo has yet to issue an official response as at press time.
