Exonerating Yahaya Bello: A Hero We are failing to Celebrate »

By Bello Onimisi Abdulhameed

The political landscape of Kogi State is a complex reflection of its diverse tribal dynamics. Historically, the Ebira people in Kogi Central Senatorial District have faced marginalization since the state’s creation, often finding themselves excluded from power and influence.

The pursuit of the Governorship has been marred by violence, bloodshed and division. However, amidst this turmoil, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of – Alhaji Yahaya Bello (AYB)

Yahaya Bello, a young man who dared to defy the odds in 2015, rose from the depths of this turmoil and secured the governorship of Kogi State, offering a new perspective and potential for change in the entire state. His ascension was not merely a political victory; it was a divine intervention that brought an end to the senseless killings that plagued Kogi Central. Under his leadership, the once fragmented community began to heal, ushering in a new era of human and capital development. More importantly, he inspired a generation of young leaders, advocating for unity and collaboration over division and strife.

In a logical world, a Hero like H.E Yahaya Bello would be celebrated, cherished, and honored by his community. Yet, instead of rejoicing at his accomplishments, certain factions, those who cling to a sense of superiority based on ancestral lineage in Ebira land, chose to demean and dismiss him. These individuals, believing themselves to be seats of power due to their self acclaimed family legacies, have waged a war of discord against not just FGYB, but the very ideals of progress and inclusion of the less privileged people he represents.

These so-called custodians of pedigree are blinded by their own believes of heritage. They operate on the premise that the legacies of their fathers should grant them access to leadership without accountability or merit. It is as though they expect divine endorsement for their entitlement, assuming that a cosmic decree should favor them over the true voices of the people. Their insatiable hunger for power leads them to orchestrate campaigns of discredit and character assassination against those who threaten their grasp on influence, especially Yahaya Bello, who has rewritten the narrative of what it means to lead and emancipate a child of a no body.

It is profoundly disheartening to see that while Yahaya Bello worked tirelessly to foster peace, these individuals have perpetuated an atmosphere of animosity and division, dangerously flirting with the evils of the past. Their machinations are clear, they crave a return to a time when violence and chaos dictated the political climate, a time marked by blood sheds and endless rivalry among the Ebira people. They fail to recognize how far we have come, the lives transformed by Yahaya Bello governance, and the progress we have made as a community, united rather than fragmented. It is as if they yearn for the very rivalries that had once cost our people dearly, disregarding the cries of those who seek prosperity, unity, and peace. Those set of people feeds from our crises and disunity.

What these detractors fail to understand is that true leadership does not stem from lineage; it is defined by vision, resolve, and the ability to elevate others. Yahaya Bello emerged from humble beginnings, not as a progeny of privilege, but as a testament to hard work and daring audacity. He embodies the spirit of the young Ebira, the child of the less privileged who have realized that their history should not dictate their future. His leadership is not about himself but about the collective rise of the less privileged after years of stagnation.

Contrary to the narratives spun by those who cling to the past, Yahaya Bello’s tenure has not been solely about governance; it is rooted in empowerment. He has established programs aimed at uplifting youth and women, fostering entrepreneurship, and nurturing a culture of accountability within the local governments and the entire state. Instead of tearing each other down, he has inspired generations to climb together. His vision is not just about creating leaders; it’s about creating communities of leaders who can stand resolutely against divisive politics.

Most importantly, FGYB decision to install his successor, Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo, was a strategic move to ensure continuity of the development trajectory initiated during his tenure. It signifies a purpose beyond mere political ambition; it is a commitment to sustain the progress initiated in all parts of Kogi State.

To those who believe that pedigree grants them dominion over the future of Kogi State, I urge them to reflect on the lessons of our history. The approach of division and elitism has only resulted in loss—loss of life, loss of opportunities, and loss of unity. Instead of rallying against Yahaya Bello, they should embrace the changes he has brought forth. The legacy of our community should be one where achievements are celebrated, regardless of the bloodlines that connect us.

All desperate politicians trying to draw us back should heed to caution to avert ancestral cause