Kogi State opposition leader and human rights advocate, Comrade Usman Okai, has urged Governor Usman Ododo to rein in what he describes as the “unchecked and excessive powers” of the state’s Accountant General, Dr Habiba Onumoko.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Okai accused the Accountant General of overstepping her constitutional role, alleging financial mismanagement and undue interference in governance. He warned that her growing influence threatens transparency, accountability, and the welfare of civil servants.
Okai claims that Dr Onumoko has taken control of local government administration, with Directors of Local Government (DLGs) and treasurers now reportedly answerable to her rather than the Deputy Governor or the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
“The Accountant General has hijacked local government administration. Even the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) is afraid to approach her. We cannot govern a state like this,” Okai stated.
He further alleged that she has assumed 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.
“It is unacceptable that the Accountant General holds so much influence over public funds. Governor Ododo must act swiftly to restore confidence in the state’s financial system,” Okai asserted.
He called for immediate financial reforms, including independent oversight mechanisms, to prevent what he described as “abuse of office and financial recklessness.”
Political analysts suggest that growing concerns over financial irregularities could impact the administration’s 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 Ododo’s leadership.
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