An All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart from Yagba federal constituency of Kogi State, Ayopemi Ayowande has described the former governor of the state, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, as a visionary leader, who has been able to reshape Kogi State in his eight years as governor of the state.
Speaking with journalists in Lokoja yesterday, Ayowande noted that in the over two decades since the state was created, the political landscape has been shaped by various leaders, adding that the former governor distinguished himself for his remarkable political astuteness and transformative leadership.
“In over two decades since the establishment of Kogi State, the political landscape has been shaped by various leaders, each bringing their unique leadership styles. As they came and went, every leader made significant contributions that collectively influenced the development of the confluence state.
“Despite acknowledging the journey still ahead, it is undeniable that substantial progress has been made in governance and infrastructure under varying leadership.
“Among these leaders, one stands out for his remarkable political astuteness and transformative leadership: His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi State,” he said.
According to him, Bello’s eight-year tenure was marked not only by a commitment to administrative excellence but also by a strategic depth and boldness that set him apart from his predecessors. He added that his approach to leadership has significantly impacted the political discourse in Nigeria.
“When Alhaji Yahaya Bello ascended to the office as the 5th democratically elected governor, he faced daunting political challenges. His predecessor, ousted from the ruling party by the APC, had left behind a political environment dominated by the opposition, the PDP, especially within the House of Assembly.
“However, rather than retreating in the face of adversity, Bello harnessed his deep political insights and diplomatic skills to navigate the treacherous waters of Kogi’s political landscape.
“In a remarkably short period, just six months into his administration, the dynamics of power shifted in his favour. Through carefully crafted political alliances and an emphasis on equity, justice, and inclusion, Bello transformed the House of Assembly into a majority for the APC.”
He noted that his efforts ensured that the assembly’s leadership reflected his administration’s ideals and made strides toward a more inclusive governance structure.
According to him, Bello’s political ingenuity turned Kogi into a progressive fortress, attracting high-profile defections from the PDP, including former senators and House of Representatives members, to the APC.
“By the end of his tenure, only one member of the opposition remained in the assembly, a testament to his success in fostering political stability and unity across diverse ethnic groups in the state,” he added.
He maintained that even amidst fierce opposition and significant power transitions, Bello’s strategic brilliance ensured that the APC and its presidential candidate were able to maintain their influence in Kogi State.
He noted that Bello’s tenure is now recognised for achieving an unprecedented political footprint, with a substantial membership base and a majority of elected representatives aligned with his party.
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