Correspondent in Okene.
Okene, the heartbeat of Kogi Central, erupted into a political carnival on Tuesday as former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, made a thunderous return to his hometown.
Fresh from perfecting his bail conditions, Bello’s arrival was nothing short of a spectacle, with jubilant residents, traditional melodies, and a convoy that screamed political clout.
The former governor, flanked by his successor, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, and top APC chieftains, headed straight to the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland’s palace. The scene resembled a well-orchestrated political rally, with thousands lining the streets to cheer the man they see as their political champion.
At the palace, Bello wasted no time delivering a rousing speech.
He called for unity among Kogites and pledged unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“The success of Tinubu’s administration depends on our collective prayers and patience,” Bello said, painting the current challenges as hurdles on the path to Nigeria’s rebirth.
Governor Ododo, in a glowing tribute, credited Bello with laying the groundwork for Kogi’s progress.
“The reforms in civil service and infrastructure during his tenure are the pillars on which we stand today,” Ododo declared, adding that the prompt payment of salaries under his administration was a continuation of Bello’s economic vision.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr. Tijani Ahmed Anaje, added a royal seal of approval to the gathering, urging Kogites to unite and prioritize the state’s interest above all.
“Together, we can achieve lasting peace and development,” he emphasized, offering prayers for the state’s progress.
In what felt like a strategic move to further cement his political legacy, Bello received accolades from APC State Chairman Abdullahi Bello, who lauded him as the architect of Kogi’s transformation.
“His achievements in infrastructure and human capital development are unmatched,” Abdullahi said, predicting a brighter future for the state under Ododo’s leadership.
Political analysts view Bello’s return to Okene as not just a homecoming but a masterclass in political optics, rallying his base and reminding everyone why he remains a key player in Kogi and national politics.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
