A civil society organisation, the Nigeria Renaissance Group, has formally retracted earlier allegations of financial misappropriation against Kogi State Governor Usman Adodo, citing new evidence that contradicts previous claims.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the Group’s Convener, Comrade Usman Okai Austin, admitted the earlier accusations were based on inaccurate information and confirmed that only three billion Naira was allocated to local government areas — not the previously alleged 13.4 billion Naira.
“Gentlemen of the press, we now have verified documents showing the allocation and distribution of the three billion Naira received by the state,” Comrade Austin stated.
“The funds were duly distributed among communities with detailed financial records, including bank accounts and the names of coordinators who received the disbursements.”
Austin clarified that the initial claims, made in a February briefing, were part of the organisation’s effort to hold public office holders accountable but acknowledged that the investigation had not been thorough enough at the time. “This was not driven by malice, ethnic bias, or personal grudges against the governor,” he said.
“It was a professional effort rooted in civic responsibility, and now, with updated facts, it is only right to make corrections publicly.”
The civil society leader stressed that he was not under any pressure or coercion to withdraw the allegations, describing his actions as guided by conscience and a commitment to factual accuracy.
“It is wise to correct the record when new and accurate information becomes available,” he added.
“We acted based on the information we had at the time, and the state government has since responded transparently, which is commendable.”
The development follows recent legal troubles for Austin, who was remanded over charges related to cyberstalking and defamation against Governor Adodo.
The retraction may signal an easing of tensions between the activist and state authorities.
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