By Kogi News Tribune Staff Writer
Published: April 23, 2025
ABUJA — Former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, has thrown his full political weight behind incumbent Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, declaring that there will be “no vacancy” in the state’s Government House come 2027.
Speaking on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by members of the Kogi Central Journalists Guild (KOCJG) at his Abuja residence, Bello said Ododo’s performance within a year in office has already secured his path to re-election.
“Governor Ododo has demonstrated capacity, vision, and genuine commitment to Kogi’s development. Anyone thinking of contesting against him in 2027 is merely wasting their time and resources. There will be no vacancy in Lugard House,” Bello stated.
The former governor lauded Ododo’s continuation of key infrastructure and social development projects initiated under his administration. He noted visible improvements in healthcare delivery, road construction, and social welfare, attributing these strides to the current governor’s consistency and focus.
On the security front, Bello praised Ododo’s robust strategies in maintaining law and order despite the state’s complex terrain and proximity to over nine other states. “Security is a cornerstone of governance, and Governor Ododo has taken decisive action. Kogi remains one of the safest states in Nigeria today because of his strong anti-crime posture,” he added.
Bello also commended Ododo’s agricultural reforms, citing recent initiatives to support farmers with quality seedlings and modern tools. He expressed optimism that Kogi would soon achieve food self-sufficiency and begin supplying food to neighbouring states.
Urging unity among the people, Bello called on Kogites to throw their support behind the current administration. “The development of Kogi State is a shared duty. We must rally behind Governor Ododo to consolidate the gains of good governance,” he said.
The former governor’s endorsement is widely seen as a significant political signal that may shape the build-up to the 2027 governorship election. Observers note that Bello’s backing could deter potential challengers and cement Ododo’s standing within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and across the state’s political landscape.
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