Ex-Kogi Deputy Governor Edward Onoja Meets ADC Chieftain Austin Usman Okai
Former Kogi State deputy governor Edward Onoja has engaged in a significant political discussion with Comrade Austin Usman Okai, a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The meeting, described as candid and productive, aimed to address longstanding misconceptions arising from years of political differences.
Onoja Praises Okai's Qualities
In a statement, Onoja highlighted three key qualities he admired in Okai: punctuality, courage, and directness. He noted that the discussion successfully transformed barriers of misunderstanding into opportunities for cooperation, facilitated by the counsel of senior figures present.
Onoja emphasized the importance of peace and reconciliation, stating, "Peace takes courage. Reconciliation takes maturity. When both prevail, the future becomes greater than the past." He also invoked a biblical reference, saying, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God."
Call for Stakeholder Reconciliation
As a former deputy governor under the Yahaya Bello-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, Onoja urged all stakeholders in Kogi State to embrace reconciliation and continue building bridges for the common good. He described the meeting as a positive step toward unity and forward-looking engagement in the state's political landscape.
Okai's Political Decisions
Meanwhile, it was earlier reported that Okai, a former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency in the 2023 general elections, has officially announced he will not participate in the 2027 general elections. He confirmed he will neither contest nor seek any elective position, citing a personal choice to focus on other priorities after finishing second in a closely fought election.
Okai Criticizes ICPC's Approach
In a related development, Okai recently criticized the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for its handling of the arrest and detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai. He argued that holding a suspect before completing investigations weakens public confidence in due process and erodes democratic norms, contrasting it with the more restrained conduct of the Department of State Services (DSS). Okai noted that El-Rufai had shown willingness to cooperate, as evidenced by his voluntary appearance before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
