By 9jaeye 
In a recent statement, Austin Okai, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleged that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello misappropriated funds allocated for workers’ salaries during his administration. Okai, an activist and House of Representatives candidate for the Dekina/Bassa constituency in 2023, called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prosecute Bello, claiming that his administration diverted funds intended to improve the welfare of Kogi state employees.
According to Okai, while workers across Kogi State continued to struggle with partial or delayed payments, Bello’s government allegedly siphoned substantial amounts of funds designated for salaries. These allegations are part of a broader investigation by the EFCC, which has been monitoring financial transactions in Kogi’s Salary Bailout Account. Okai stated that the diversion of funds affected workers’ livelihoods, with many unable to meet basic financial needs due to the irregular salary payments.
Calls for EFCC Action
The PDP chieftain has been vocal in his call for accountability, urging the EFCC to take definitive action to ensure justice. Okai emphasized, “Kogi State workers deserve transparency, and redirecting their funds is completely unacceptable.” He also noted that, despite the hardships faced by civil servants, Yahaya Bello administration maintained that it was distributing funds responsibly. The EFCC identified questionable transactions involving the bailout funds, prompting further doubts about the funds’ usage.
Historical Context of Alleged Misconduct
This isn’t the first time Bello’s financial conduct has come under scrutiny. In 2021, the EFCC flagged suspicious transactions in an account meant for state salaries, which allegedly contained over N20 billion initially allocated to support struggling workers. The EFCC had frozen the account at the time due to suspicions of financial mismanagement. Okai’s recent allegations have rekindled public debate on the need for transparency and accountability in governance, particularly concerning funds earmarked for workers’ welfare.
Public Reaction and Demand for Accountability
The accusations have sparked reactions across Kogi, with many calling for a thorough audit of the state’s financial records during Bello’s tenure. Okai’s statement reflects a growing demand for accountability and justice from the former governor, whom he accuses of failing to uphold the financial rights of Kogi’s civil servants. He insists that the EFCC’s investigation should lead to formal charges if the misappropriation claims are validated, ensuring justice for affected workers.
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