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By Ben Abah

The mass defection of thousands of members from various political parties to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on July 5, 2025 in Kogi State has sparked widespread accolades for former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello’s leadership acumen. The event, held at Itedo Makutu open Space, Isanlu, Yagba East LGA, marked a significant milestone in Bello’s efforts to consolidate the party’s position in the state.

The defection, which saw prominent figures such as Hon. Samuel Aro, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Salaudeen (Erukutu), Hon. T.J. Faniyi, and Commodore Folorunsho Daniel, was Bello’s Masterstroke that boost his credentials as one of the top leaders of his party.

Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello’s activeness in APC has borne fruit, with thousands of members defecting to the party. Bello’s role in driving this development has been instrumental, and his vision for a one-party system in Kogi State is becoming a reality.

Former Gov. Bello while speaking at the occasion said, “Despite the intention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to make Nigeria a one-party system, Kogi would be a one-party system.” This bold statement reflects his commitment to the party’s ideals and his determination to deliver results.

Given his efforts in bringing Kogi State to the brink of becoming a one-party system, many are now speculating that Bello deserves the national chairmanship of the APC. His leadership and strategic vision have been instrumental in strengthening the party’s presence in the state, and his influence extends beyond Kogi State.

Governor Ododo during his speech, expressed his gratitude to former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying, “Leaders and members of our great party, we are here today because someone has provided us the platform.

“On this note, I rise to appreciate His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we want to tell Mr. President that we in Kogi State are not ingrates. I am standing here to tell Mr. President that we in Kogi State, we are not hungry and we are not angry, perhaps anyone says Nigerians are hungry and angry, we are not part of them.”

While addressing the crowd, Governor Ododo also thanked the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, promising to drive his mandate of leadership with him throughout his administration. He warmly welcomed the defectors to the APC, saying, “I welcome all the decampees to the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

He also promised to address security challenges in the Yagba East Local Government Area, warning indigenes and traditional rulers to desist from partnering with criminals.

The Acting APC National Chairman, Alhaji Bukar Dalori, represented by Mazu Bawa Rijau, formally welcomed the defectors to the party and handed over the party flag to the Decampees. He said, “On behalf of the National Acting Chairman of our great Party , I formally welcome you to the party.”

Bello’s contributions to the APC’s growth and development make a strong case for his candidacy for the National chairmanship. His ability to deliver results and build a strong party structure in Kogi State demonstrates his potential to lead the party at the national level.

*Ben Abah writes from Lokoja, Kogi State of Nigeria.

This post has already been read at least 1139 times!