Governor Yahaya Bello Emphasizes Unity Over Ethnic Sentiment in Kogi Elections

Governor Yahaya Bello asserted that the recent elections in Kogi State transcended ethnic considerations, emphasizing that the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured victory on November 11 by presenting a popular candidate rather than relying on tribal affiliations.

He communicated this perspective during an APC stakeholder meeting at the Government House in Lokoja on Saturday.

Bello emphasized the need for unity, stating, “Kogi must develop as one united state; under no illusion must any tribe think it could vote for itself and become governor without the support of other tribes.”

Reflecting on the 2019 election, where he won without an ethnic agenda, the governor cautioned against tribal sentiments, envisioning a victory based on the party’s merit.

Commending the support of President Bola Tinubu, Bello highlighted the clean and clear victory of the APC and its candidate, Alhaji Usman Ododo, in the off-cycle election. He urged a review of the election process for learning and improvement, acknowledging the challenges faced over the last seven years but expressing gratitude for the resounding victory.

Governor Bello pledged to maintain transparency in his governance, ensuring that the people benefit from democratic dividends. He regretted the influence of emotions and personal interests during the election, citing the administration’s achievements in road construction, healthcare, and infrastructure development as key factors in the overwhelming APC win.

Acknowledging the Igala nation as non-tribalistic and non-racist, Bello attributed the election outcome to misleading representation. He assured the people of Kogi West that “payback time” would arrive soon and urged leaders to foster selflessness and educate their constituents for a united future.