Yahaya Bello at 50: Former CPS, Onogwu Mohammed, Pays Tribute to Ex-Governor's Courage, Loyalty »

As former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, marks his 50th birthday, a heartfelt tribute from his former Chief Press Secretary, Onogwu Mohammed, has drawn attention to the ex-governor’s steadfast leadership, loyalty, and personal impact on those who served under him.

In a detailed statement, Onogwu recounted his personal experiences serving as Chief Press Secretary to the former governor, describing Yahaya Bello as “a man defined by purpose, courage, and service.” According to him, the former governor’s leadership during his eight-year tenure was transformational, citing the New Direction Agenda as a turning point in Kogi State’s governance.

The statement, titled “Yahaya Bello @50: The Man Who Chose Me Despite the Mob,” highlighted not just Bello’s political accomplishments but also his personal integrity and ability to resist pressure, gossip, and malicious campaigns.

Onogwu narrated how he was targeted by political rivals, social media campaigns, and even personal associates who sought to discredit him through lies, blackmail, and ethnic bias. Despite these pressures, he said, Bello stood firm in his support for him.

“There were moments I was most vilified. But you, Your Excellency, refused to be swayed by the drums of deceit,” Onogwu wrote, crediting Bello’s discernment and calmness for keeping him in office during stormy periods.

He recalled attempts by political actors, including a former local government chairman, to convince the governor that he was disloyal. In one instance, Onogwu said some individuals even procured multiple SIM cards to circulate fabricated stories against him, while others paid influencers to launch coordinated attacks online. Still, Bello remained unmoved.

“It takes a leader with immense clarity and confidence to dismiss propaganda and uphold justice,” he said, noting that Bello’s ability to see through falsehood made him not just a leader, but a protector.

Onogwu also disclosed that one of his own relatives joined efforts to discredit him, but Bello did not allow personal relationships or political noise to cloud his judgment.

“Whenever people ask me why I’m loyal to GYB, I smile and say: because no reasonable man turns his back on someone who reflects the image of God in both spirit and heart,” Onogwu stated.

He prayed for continued strength, wisdom, and peace for the former governor as he enters a new phase of life.

Alhaji Yahaya Bello served as the 4th Executive Governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024 and is widely recognized for his youthful leadership style, centralization of governance, and efforts toward unity in a state known for its ethnic diversity.