Ododo says he runs ‘working cabal’ in Kogi Government, credits Bello’s backing

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has said his administration operates what he described as a “working cabal,” noting that the arrangement has helped his government deliver results.

Ododo made the remark while speaking at a recent project inauguration event, where he addressed an audience on his leadership style and the structure of his administration.

The governor stated that the existence of a small inner circle guiding government decisions was not new to him, revealing that he had previously been part of a cabal during the administration of his predecessor, Yahaya Bello. However, he noted that the earlier clique achieved limited results.

According to Ododo, the difference with his current administration lies in effectiveness and focus, as he insisted that his inner circle is result-oriented and committed to delivering on governance priorities.

He further suggested that his leadership enjoys the approval and backing of former governor Yahaya Bello, stressing that the present structure within his government is working for the benefit of the state.

Ododo’s comments come amid ongoing public debates about the influence of informal power blocs, often referred to as “cabals,” in Nigerian politics and governance.

The governor maintained that his administration remains focused on delivering projects and policies that improve the lives of Kogi residents, adding that performance, rather than labels, should be the measure of his government’s success.