2027: Yahaya Bello’s Growing Influence Worries Opponents in Kogi Central

Residents of Kogi State have reaffirmed their support for former Governor Yahaya Bello’s senatorial campaign for Kogi Central, asserting that his ongoing interventions and effects are unmatched in the state’s history.

They say the unity and peace that Bello cultivated among Kogi’s tribes and ethnic groups during his eight‑year tenure have endured and left a lasting impression.

Prominent commentators in the Confluence State praised Bello for his positive impact, noting that his governorship markedly promoted unity among the state’s diverse ethnic groups—especially the Ebira, Igala, and Okun—through the “EBIGO” (Ebira, Igala, Okun) initiative.

The locals made these statements amid a heightened sense of panic among detractors, who have reportedly copied newspaper cover pages in an attempt to spread misleading narratives about Bello.

“Former Governor Yahaya Bello came into power at a very critical time in the annals of Kogi. It was a time the people practised politics of ethnic sentiment, class and religion. It was a time when insecurity held sway in the country and Kogi was not an exemption. But, the moment Governor Bello emerged, he turned things around and united every ethnic group. His EBIGO initiative brought about the “Kogi First” agenda where people start seeing themselves as one and making all efforts to see Kogi grow,” the Country Head, Young Women of Africa, Ms. Idris Asmawu Omeiza said.

Stakeholders in Kogi hailed Bello as a “unifier” and “bridge builder.”

They noted that Bello pioneered an inclusive governance model by appointing officials from tribes other than his own, the Ebira, a practice that has endeared him to the populace and, according to them, prevents bitterness from undermining Kogi Central’s representation.

They also claim that Bello’s influence remains strong in Kogi because of his extensive infrastructure projects. His administration redistributed developmental works across all three senatorial districts to promote equal growth and reduce feelings of marginalisation.

Political observers point out that Bello’s name entered the public’s good books when he dismantled the long‑standing dominance of a single ethnic group and established a more balanced power structure, which has helped sustain peace and unity in Kogi.

They cite the 2023 governorship election as evidence of Bello’s success in prioritising the Kogi agenda over individual tribal interests.

By strengthening the state’s security apparatus, stakeholders say Bello significantly reduced tribal clashes and fostered peaceful coexistence among the different communities.

Analysts note that Bello’s positive impacts, commitment to peace, and candid approach have resonated beyond Kogi State. They recall his intervention that averted a potential “war” when some Northern youths had mobilised to retaliate against the South after a clash with westerners.

In early 2021, Northern traders had banned the sending of food items to the