By joshua 
Okai, 2 others Retracts N13.4 Billion Diversion Claim, Apologizes to Governor
– Following a thorough review of information provided by the Kogi State Government, Comr. Usman Okai Austin, alongside Comrade Okpanachi Jacob and Peter Onuma, today issued a formal retraction of statements made during a press briefing last month concerning the alleged diversion of N13.4 billion in state funds.
The initial statement, titled “Group Demands Immediate Refund of N13.4 Billion Allegedly Diverted from State Coffers by the Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo,” was based on information that has since been clarified.
Upon further diligent comparison of relevant facts, particularly those provided by the State Government regarding the disbursement of funds for local government development, Comr. Austin acknowledged significant discrepancies in the information previously available. It has now been established that the funds in question amount to Three Billion Naira (N3,000,000,000.00), and the State Government has provided documentation outlining the approved sharing formula for these released funds. This documentation has been reviewed by Comr. Austin.
Consequently, Comr. Austin stated, “We acknowledge that our previous comments may have inadvertently caused confusion and were based on inaccurate information about the financial details available to us at that time.”
On behalf of himself, Comrade Okpanachi Jacob, and Peter Onuma, who participated in the previous press conference, Comr. Austin offered an unreserved apology and formally withdrew the statement in its entirety.
Furthermore, the statement clarified that their activities within Kogi State are driven by a commitment to accountability and good governance, devoid of any political or ethnic bias. “Our collective intention has consistently been to provide an opposing voice and contribute to holding the government accountable, a role we believe is vital in a democratic society,” Comr. Austin emphasized. “We have no personal animosity, hatred, or ill feelings towards His Excellency Governor Usman Ododo, his administration, his tribe, or any member of his family. We hold the Governor in high regard as the duly elected leader of our esteemed state.”
Comr. Austin reiterated that it was never their intention to demean the Governor, his family, or his office, and they take full responsibility for any damage or inconvenience their previous assertions may have caused.
“This retraction is made in good faith, and we deeply regret any distress or harm the previous remarks may have caused to His Excellency, the administration, or the good people of Kogi State,” the statement concluded.