Austin Okai, others retract N13.4bn diversion allegation towards Gov Ododo

Three members of the Peoples Democratic Celebration (PDP) in Kogi State, Okai Austin, Okpanachi Jacob, and Peter Onuma, have formally apologised to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo over an earlier allegation accusing him of diverting N13.4 billion meant for native authorities improvement.

The trio, who in March held a press convention beneath the banner “Group Calls for Speedy Refund of N13.4 Billion Allegedly Diverted from State Coffers by the Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo”, have now withdrawn the declare, citing a misrepresentation of information and a clearer understanding of the monetary particulars concerned.

In a letter addressed to Governor Ododo and made obtainable to journalists on Tuesday, Okai Austin wrote, “I hereby apologise on behalf of myself, Okpanachi Jacob, and Peter Onuma, who had been invited as a part of the press convention, and withdraw the mentioned assertion in its entirety.”

The apology additionally addressed accusations of political bias or ulterior motives. “Moreover, we want to categorically state that our actions inside Kogi State are devoid of bigotry or get together variations, as alleged by some quarters, however somewhat replicate honest participation in guaranteeing that you just write your title within the golden historical past of our expensive state.”

Reaffirming their democratic intentions, the letter added, “Our collective intention has persistently been to supply an opposing voice and contribute to holding the federal government accountable, a task we imagine is important in a democratic society.”

Additionally they distanced themselves from any private assaults on the governor. “We’ve got no private animosity, hatred, or sick emotions in direction of your authorities, persona, tribe, or any member of your loved ones. We maintain Your Excellency, Governor Usman Ododo, in excessive regard because the duly elected Governor of our esteemed state.”

“It’s by no means our intention to demean Your Excellency in particular person, your loved ones, or your workplace. Nonetheless, we take full accountability for any harm or inconvenience our assertions could have brought about,” the letter continued.

Concluding the apology, they mentioned, “This retraction is made in good religion, and we deeply remorse any misery or hurt the earlier remarks could have brought about to Your Excellency, the administration, or the nice individuals of Kogi State.”