Fmr Kogi Gov Yahaya Bello Distances Self From Nationwide Protest

By Ayodele Oni

The embattled, fugitive of the law, and mediate past Governor of Kogi state, Yahaya Bello, has, from his hideout, cried out over plan to link him with sponsorship of the ongoing nationwide Protests.

A statement from his media office, signed by Ohiare Michael explained that reaction to the allegation became necessary due to the implication of the current protest as regards the national security.

“We have uncovered a high-wired plan by some disgruntled enemies of the nation and persons on the Project Bring Down Yahaya Bello, to frame him up as one of the sponsors of the #EndBadGovernance protests across the country.

“It is pertinent to respond to the tirades of falsehood because it borders on national security. Our resolve is further strengthened by the condemnable act of some protesters displaying the flags of other nations.

“Yahaya Bello is a patriot who had devoted his time, resources and energy to building a united and prosperous Nigeria.

“It was Yahaya Bello who acted swiftly to resolve a major problem between the North and the South, which would have caused a major crisis in Nigeria.

“What threatened our fragile unity was resolved amicably on the negotiation table provided by Alh. Yahaya Bello when he mediated between the Northern food transporters and their Southern counterparts and brought them together as food exchange between the two regions was threatened.

“That move earned so much commendations by leaders of the country at that time.

“In the build up to the 2023 Presidential Poll, a number of impediments and political cum economic landmines were laid on the road, including the Naira Redesign Policy.

“It was the same Yahaya Bello with some of his colleagues then that dared the system and secured the judgement that set that aside at the Supreme Court. It was a landmark intervention at a time that the nation was almost collapsing.

“In the Presidential Poll, Alh. Yahaya Bello mobilized Kogites massively to deliver victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

“Can the masterminds of his persecution show the world the results in their state? He also mobilized the youth of the nation as the Youth Mobilization Committee Chairman because of his faith in the leadership capacity of Mr President.

“Former Governor Yahaya Bello is a patriot and democrat par excellence who will never do anything to upset Nigeria’s democratic status.

“More importantly, His Excellency Yahaya Bello invested his considerable energy, time and resources in supporting the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to whom he has remained loyal and committed to this day.

“We call on the Police, Department of State Services, and other relevant agencies to investigate the claims. This is a matter of national security, which must not be taken lightly.”