By Abdul Mohammed Lawal.
I often receive amusing messages from people who express disbelief that I am Igala, especially when I write about His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, addressing the parts of his story that regional elites have misrepresented, or that our divides have prevented the average Kogite from hearing. Yes, I am Igala, and as far as I know, my tribe is not at war with anyone. Should that ever happen, I would proudly defend it.
My focus has always been on enlightening the youth of Kogi to free them from the emotional manipulation often used by their regional politicians. They are already rebranding themselves to come back better in 2027, because while the grassroots battle with the effects of a belief they made them stood by, they are already thinking of the next cycle. His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, like any human being, has his flaws, but getting to know him reveals a unique individual, far from the demon many try to paint him as.
Leadership requires strategic thinking, planning, forming alliances across divides, and sometimes, a touch of fate. We must look beyond what divides us, appreciate how people rise to leadership, examine their policies, commend what works, and criticise what doesn’t. If they ignore constructive feedback, they should be held accountable. You must understand that it took a lot to build that persona you choose to hate.
When Kogi State was created, it was an exciting moment. Those with foresight understood that the current events were inevitable. Kogi East might not have expected this shift so soon, but Kogi Central and West have anticipated it for longer. While the East has lived the dream, and the Central is living it now, the West still awaits its turn. This is part of the unique beauty of Kogi State, and the intrigues will continue.
I eagerly anticipate the next phase of Kogi’s evolution, especially because of how His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has transformed the political landscape and how Kogites politick. With all the good, bad, and ugly aspects, he rose above challenges and represented Kogi on the national stage. Those who don’t understand now will in due course, perhaps in the next phase of the state’s development.
When I began sharing these stories a few months ago, as propaganda and emotions flooded the media space ahead of the outcome of the the accompanying litigation process for 2023 Kogi gubernatorial election, it felt fulfilling. Truth is best told when people are agitated and being fed with a different narrative. It was a privilege to contribute to the discourse.
To those who felt it was inappropriate for an Igala man to tell this story, I thank you for your views, but I make no apologies. For those who assumed I was paid or that His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello is my boss, I regret to inform you that we do not know each other personally. If I had wanted to, I could have pursued that, especially since I contributed to writing his presidential manifesto “for free.” If you are curious about the value of that work, compare it with the “Renewed Hope” manifesto, and you will see GYB’s contributions to the current APC policy document.
In the end, I have helped create a new school of thought, and those who have benefited from the “New Direction” in one form or the other are now telling His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello’s story too. Even before the recent EFCC drama and political challenges, many Kogi political opinion leaders who have emerged in recent years started writing about him; even more so than the current administration. This is the fulfilment I sought.
It has been a wonderful experience these last few months, and this is only the beginning. When someone recently told me about certain criteria I needed to meet for a particular group to share my content, I laughed. What I write isn’t for everyone, nor does it need promotion. Those who wish to read my perspective on His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello’s story are already doing so.
Thank you all for the kind and critical feedback, the engagements, and direct messages. Thank you for taking the time to read and, in some cases, write rejoinders. It has been a rewarding journey, but I am far from finished telling the stories of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello. Even, if you don’t like him, please keep reading the story to broaden your views about politicking in Kogi State and say no to manipulations and emotional games.
Thank you His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello for all that you have given. Kogi State can only get better from here.