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By Correspondent in Lokoja.
(C) Google.
Former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello.
As political activities gather momentum in Kogi State ahead of forthcoming elections in 2027, former governor Yahaya Bello has issued a strong call for unity, patience, and people-centred leadership among aspirants jostling for elective positions.
Bello gave the advice while receiving members of the Kogi State House of Assembly in Lokoja, in a meeting that comes amid heightened consultations, shifting alliances, and strategic positioning.
The meeting comes amid increasing political consultations and realignments following the inauguration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Bello’s successor and political ally, who won the 2023 governorship election.
Speaking through a statement by his Media Office, Bello congratulated aspirants who have secured their expression of interest and nomination forms, but cautioned that political ambition must be guided by a sense of responsibility and long-term impact rather than personal gain.
He reminded the aspirants that political power is transient, stressing that true leadership is defined by legacy, sacrifice, and service to the people.
“Many are qualified, but the realities of politics require compromise, patience, and respect for the process,” Bello said, urging those in the race to recognise the sacrifices of others who stepped aside to create opportunities for them.
In a stern warning against the growing monetisation of politics, the former governor advised aspirants not to pay for endorsements, urging anyone asked to do so to demand a refund.
He described such practices as detrimental to democratic values and grassroots credibility.
Bello further encouraged aspirants to return to their constituencies to mend fences, build bridges, and reconnect with stakeholders, noting that unity, inclusiveness, and strong grassroots engagement remain the pillars of electoral success.
Expressing confidence in their chances, he urged them to sustain any victory achieved through dedication to public service, adding that he hopes to be remembered as a “promise keeper” who honoured his commitments except where circumstances made it impossible.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon.Umar Aliyu, highlighted the legislature’s achievements, noting that the culture of unity established during Bello’s administration has been preserved under Governor Ododo.
He commended the former governor for his unwavering support and trust in the Assembly, attributing its effectiveness to the solid foundation laid during Bello’s tenure.
Reaffirming the lawmakers’ loyalty, the Speaker pledged continued support for the Ododo administration’s policies and development agenda.
Aliyu also revealed a significant development in the state’s legislative structure, disclosing that the number of Assembly seats has risen from 25 during Bello’s tenure to 36 ahead of the next elections, following the recognition of previously suppressed constituencies.
The development, he noted, is expected to deepen representation and further reshape the political landscape as Kogi prepares for another critical electoral cycle.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
