Yahaya Bello Urges Lawmakers to Back Governor Ododo Unconditionally
A viral video circulating on social media has captured former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello urging members of the State House of Assembly to give unwavering support to his successor, Governor Usman Ododo.
In the footage, Bello can be heard advising legislators to endorse all proposals brought forward by Ododo, even if they don’t fully understand them.
“As you’re going in there now, go and cooperate with the Speaker and other members of the Kogi State House of Assembly. Be among those who support Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. Are you getting my point? On every matter that comes before the Assembly—everything, everything—even if you don’t understand it,” Bello stated.
Governor Ododo, who assumed office in January 2024, previously served as Auditor-General for Local Governments. His rise to power is widely seen as a result of Bello’s strong influence within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with many viewing Ododo as Bello’s political protégé.
Meanwhile, Bello himself is facing intense legal scrutiny. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed multiple corruption charges against him, alleging the misappropriation of over ₦80 billion in state funds. The accusations include using public funds for luxury property acquisitions in Abuja and Dubai, and paying foreign school fees through intermediaries.
The video has sparked widespread debate online, with critics raising concerns about Bello’s ongoing sway over the state’s governance despite his current legal challenges.
