Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has urged political leaders and stakeholders from Kogi West Senatorial District to embrace peace and unity, describing cohesion as the bedrock of sustainable political progress and development in the state.
Bello made the call on Sunday while receiving leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Kogi West at his Abuja residence, where he also expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would secure a landslide victory in Kogi State during the 2027 general elections.
Addressing the delegation after listening to their submissions, the former governor said Kogi’s socio-political challenges could only be addressed through collective effort and peaceful coexistence.
He stressed that no divided political family could achieve meaningful success, noting that unity remained essential for the state’s stability and prosperity.
“I have listened to you all and I understand your concerns. The only lasting solution to our socio-political challenges in Kogi State is for us to work together in unity and create room for peace,” Bello said.
Reflecting on his eight years in office, Bello said his administration laid a solid foundation for unity among the people of Kogi East, Central and West, adding that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo was consolidating on that legacy.
According to him, political offices are temporary, but the need to preserve unity among the people must remain paramount.
“If we fail to remain united, we leave room for outsiders to sow further division among us. Our commitment to unity must be sustained if we truly want our people to prosper,” he added.
The former governor acknowledged that politics naturally accommodates differing opinions and interests but urged political actors to respect one another’s views while pursuing common objectives for the overall development of the state.
Bello also commended the Kogi State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), for what he described as professionalism, dedication and exemplary service to the state, saying he had distinguished himself as a committed public servant and worthy ambassador of the Okun nation.
On the 2027 general elections, Bello said President Tinubu would enjoy overwhelming support from Kogi State, maintaining that the APC had consistently dominated elections across the state.
He called on party faithful to remain united and work towards delivering victory for all APC candidates in the forthcoming polls.
Earlier, the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), alongside Alfred Bello, Hon. Fagbola, Hon. Olumoko, Rt. Hon. Alfa Imam and other speakers, reaffirmed their support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration.
They said the governor deserved a second term in 2028, arguing that the existing political understanding with Kogi Central Senatorial District should be respected in the interest of equity and continuity.
The speakers also lauded Bello for establishing Kogi State University, Kabba, describing the institution as the fulfilment of a long-standing aspiration of the people of Kogi West.
