The National Association of Bassa Students (NABS) in Kogi State has publicly expressed its gratitude to a prominent political figure for his unwavering support. The students from the Bassa Local Government Area chapter commended Usman Okai Austin, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following a recent courtesy visit.
Students Laud Okai's Humility and Commitment
In a statement released on December 28, 2025, and signed by Kure Jeremiah Shiloba, who led the student delegation, NABS highlighted Okai's exemplary conduct. The students praised the former candidate for the Bassa/Dekina Federal House of Representatives seat for his humility, approachability, and deep commitment to the progress of the Bassa people. They noted that his focus on the student community was particularly encouraging.
The statement emphasized that the warm reception and open engagement provided by Okai reflected purposeful leadership. "Your encouragement and support through our delegation are gestures that will not be forgotten," the students declared. They added that such interactions significantly strengthen their confidence in his leadership and vision for grassroots development.
ADC Chieftain Criticizes Kogi State Government
In a related development, Usman Okai has directed sharp criticism at the Kogi State government led by Governor Usman Ododo. He alleged a glaring lack of visible development in the state despite increased federal revenue allocations since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration began in 2023.
Okai pointed to the removal of the fuel subsidy and the resulting inflation as major sources of hardship for Kogi residents. He stated that there is growing resentment among the populace due to the government's perceived insensitivity. "Despite substantial revenue, citizens question the government's spending," Okai asserted. He contrasted Kogi's situation with that of neighboring states which he claimed have shown more development with similar financial inflows.
Call for Transparency and Probe
The ADC chieftain issued a strong call for transparency and accountability in the management of public funds in Kogi. He specifically highlighted the plight of local government workers who are reportedly receiving only partial salaries, despite the state's improved financial position from the federation account.
Furthermore, Okai commented on the state's anti-corruption efforts, urging Governor Ododo to uphold the rule of law. He condemned what he described as the 'unjust' application of state power concerning the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) case against former Governor Yahaya Bello. Okai called for Ododo to allow the probe into Bello's alleged N80 billion financial crime to proceed without obstruction.
He criticized a state law that prohibits the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) from investigating corruption cases involving state assets, arguing that it undermines governance transparency. Okai stressed the imperative for the governor to take concrete steps to demonstrate a genuine commitment to combating corruption.
