Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, isn’t stepping away from the political scene just yet. He’s been actively engaging with traditional leaders, urging them to throw their weight behind the current Governor, Ahmed Ododo. This move comes as Kogi navigates its future, and Bello is keen to ensure a smooth transition and continued progress. Let’s dive into what this means for the state.
Key Highlights:
- Yahaya Bello urges Kogi traditional rulers to support Governor Ahmed Ododo.
- Traditional leaders pledge their commitment to state and federal leadership.
- Bello emphasizes the importance of peace and unity for development.
- The visit underscores the continued influence of Yahaya Bello in Kogi.
- Governor Ododo’s parents also visited Bello, showing family ties in Kogi’s politics.
Bello’s Call to Action
In a meeting held at his residence in Okene, Yahaya Bello implored the Kogi Central Traditional Council of Chiefs to not only maintain peace within their communities but to also offer their full support to Governor Ahmed Ododo. He stressed that unity and harmony are the foundation for any meaningful development in society. This wasn’t just a casual request; it was a call for collective action to ensure the state’s prosperity.
Why Traditional Rulers?
Traditional rulers hold significant sway in Nigerian communities. They are often the first point of contact for many people, and their words carry weight. Bello knows this and is leveraging their influence to galvanize support for the new administration. This move highlights the enduring role traditional leaders play in the country’s political landscape.
Prayers for Leaders
Bello didn’t stop at seeking support for Ododo. He also urged the traditional rulers to include President Bola Tinubu and all other leaders in their prayers. He believes spiritual backing from these institutions is essential for leaders to make decisions that benefit the people. This speaks volumes about the spiritual dimension that is often intertwined with politics in Nigeria.
A Warm Welcome Home
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Tijani Ahmed-Anaje, and the Ejeh Ankpa, Abubakar Yakubu, led the delegation that visited Bello. They stated the visit was to officially welcome him back home and affirmed their continued support for the state and federal leaderships, emphasizing their commitment to stability and progress across Kogi.
The Significance of Family Ties
In a heartwarming development, Bello also received Governor Ododo’s parents at his residence. This meeting further cements the bond between the two families and their shared vision for Kogi. This familial aspect isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a crucial part of the political dynamic in the region, where relationships often play a significant role in governance.
Reactions to Bello’s Tenure
The Ohi of Adayi, Alhaji Muhammed Bello, praised Bello’s achievements during his eight-year tenure as governor. He acknowledged that leaders face challenges but urged Bello to remain resilient and view these challenges as stepping stones for future successes. It’s a reminder that politics is a long game, with ups and downs, but the important thing is to persevere.
What’s Next?
As Kogi moves forward, this show of support from traditional leaders will play a critical role. The collaboration between traditional institutions and government leaders is likely to be a recurring theme in the coming months. The state’s ability to thrive depends on the collective effort of these critical players.