Shock as DSS Arrests Usman Okai for Speaking Against Kogi Government

The Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended Comrade Usman Okai Austin, a former member of the House of Representatives for the Dekina/Bassa federal constituency in Kogi State. Renowned activist and politician Omoyele Sowore reported that DSS operatives conducted a forceful arrest at Okai’s residence, allegedly due to his outspoken criticism of Governor Usman Ododo’s administration.

Sowore, taking to social media platform X, condemned the arrest, describing it as an act of abduction and dehumanization. He emphasized that Okai’s detention was a direct result of his dissenting views against Governor Ododo, whom Sowore referred to as “illegitimate.” He further called for Okai’s immediate release, criticizing the DSS for acting as mercenaries for corrupt political figures.

Comrade Okai has been a persistent critic of Governor Ododo’s administration. Recently, he urged the governor to address what he termed the “unchecked and excessive powers” of the state’s Accountant-General, Dr. Habibat Onumoko. Okai accused Dr. Onumoko of overstepping her constitutional role, alleging financial mismanagement and undue interference in governance. He claimed that a cabal led by the Accountant-General had effectively taken over the administration, undermining democratic processes.

In response to these allegations, the Kogi Progressives Youth for Good Governance defended Dr. Onumoko, dismissing Okai’s claims as politically motivated fabrications. The group’s Secretary-General, Adejoh Sylvester Ikani, described Okai as a “well-known propagandist and merchant of fake news,” asserting that his accusations lacked credibility. The group praised Dr. Onumoko’s commitment to fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability, crediting her with significant improvements in civil service welfare and the state’s financial management.

This incident is not isolated. In August 2020, Usman Okai accused Kogi State politicians of using security operatives to harass and intimidate residents. He cited instances where individuals were detained for expressing concerns over the state’s handling of critical issues, including public health crises. Okai emphasized the need for security agencies to protect citizens’ rights to free expression rather than serve as tools for political oppression.

The arrest of Comrade Usman Okai has sparked widespread debate about the balance between state security measures and the preservation of democratic freedoms. Observers and human rights advocates are closely monitoring the situation, urging the DSS and Kogi State authorities to uphold the principles of justice and human rights in addressing dissenting voices.