Kogi State opposition leader and human rights advocate, Comrade Usman Okai, has called on Governor Usman Ododo to curb what he describes as the “unchecked and excessive powers” of the state’s Accountant General, Dr. Habiba Onumoko.

In a statement on Tuesday, Okai accused Onumoko of overstepping her constitutional role, alleging financial mismanagement and undue interference in governance. He warned that her growing influence threatens transparency, accountability, and civil servants’ welfare.

Okai claimed that Onumoko has taken control of local government administration, with Directors of Local Government (DLGs) and treasurers reportedly answering to her instead of 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 of approaching her. We cannot govern a state like this,” Okai said.

He further alleged that she has taken over responsibilities from the Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs and Finance, leaving other officials “helpless.”

Okai also raised concerns about financial accountability, accusing Onumoko of excessive control over public funds, allegedly to the detriment of workers and pensioners.

“It is unacceptable that the Accountant General wields so much influence over public funds. Governor Ododo must act swiftly to restore confidence in the state’s financial system,” he said.

He called for immediate financial reforms, including independent oversight mechanisms, to prevent what he termed “abuse of office and financial recklessness.”

Political analysts suggest that concerns over financial irregularities could impact the administration’s credibility.

A vocal critic of the state government, Okai has consistently pushed for transparency and accountability. His latest remarks add to growing concerns over governance and fiscal discipline under Governor Ododo’s leadership.