A pressure group, the Movement for he Emancipation of Kogi State (MEKSTA), has called on Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, to resign from office, alleging that he remains under the influence of his predecessor, former governor Yahaya Bello, and lacks the independence required to ensure accountable governance.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the group described Ododo as a “puppet” in the hands of Bello and accused him of being complicit in alleged financial mismanagement during the immediate past administration.

MEKSTA said Ododo’s former position as Auditor-General for Local Governments under Bello raises serious concerns about his commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, alleging that the period was marked by questionable handling of council funds.

According to the group, the governor’s continued stay in office undermines accountability and public trust, claiming that justice and constitutional responsibilities in the state have been sacrificed for what it termed corruption and political loyalty.

The group further alleged that Ododo emerged as Bello’s preferred successor in the 2023 governorship election to shield the former administration from scrutiny and to protect what it described as controversial financial dealings.

MEKSTA also accused the governor of attempting to interfere in ongoing investigations and court matters involving his chief of staff, Ali Bello, who is also related to the former governor.

“These developments raise troubling questions about leadership integrity, justice and governance direction in Kogi State,” the statement said.

The group criticised the administration’s fiscal performance, noting that despite receiving substantial allocations and revenues in nearly two years, there is little evidence of completed and commissioned projects across the state.

It also faulted the state government’s reported plan to raise N50 billion through sukuk bonds to finance projects including an international airport and a market, describing the move as misplaced amid pressing needs in electricity, water supply and healthcare.

“Priority should be given to essential services that directly impact citizens’ welfare, not prestige projects,” the group stated.

MEKSTA said Ododo should step down in the interest of justice and the wellbeing of Kogi residents, insisting that resignation would be the honourable course if the governor is committed to accountability.

The statement was jointly signed by Obafemi Medaiyese, Joseph Mebatonije, Yusuf Kpareke, Jimoh Ozovehe, Nurudeen Adaviriku, Isiaka Momoh, Ojonimi Adegbe, Mark Onucheyo and Husseini Saidu, who the group said represent federal constituencies across the state.