Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has urged the people of Kogi East to strengthen unity and solidarity as a foundation for progress and sustainable growth.
Bello made the call on Monday while receiving members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who presented the State Assembly member-elect, Hon. Hassan Shado, at his Abuja residence.
While congratulating Shado on his election, the former governor emphasized that political victory goes beyond winning at the polls. He stressed that true success lies in harnessing collective strength to secure greater bargaining power and drive enduring development.
“I want to thank you and congratulate you for this wonderful outing. You have shown the spirit of togetherness and unity, which I believe was lacking in the past. This resounding victory at the polls is not just for Hon. Hassan Shado, but for all of you who stood united behind him,” he said.
Advising the member-elect, Bello reminded him that no candidate could win an election without the backing of loyal party members and grassroots supporters who worked tirelessly, from nomination to the general election.
He urged him to ensure inclusivity, broad consultation, and collective leadership.
“You have been declared winner of this election. But remember, it was not by your effort alone. Your people stood firmly behind you; they worked for your success. Do not let them down in any way,” he admonished.
During the event, Bello reflected on his student years at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, recalling how he first met the State Auditor-General, Hon. Yusuf Okala.
He commended Okala for his honesty, consistency, and dedication to public service, describing him as a rare example of integrity in leadership.
“Okala may insist he is not a politician—and truly, he is different. Unlike many who make empty promises, he speaks the truth and upholds it. This is the quality of leadership our people deserve,” Bello stated.
Highlighting the resilience and wide acceptance of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bello reassured attendees that the party continues to hold a dominant position in Nigeria’s political space.
He expressed optimism that the APC would retain its grip on major offices in the coming general elections, including the presidency, governorship, and legislative seats.
“I have no doubt that our President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will be re-elected. Our Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, will be re-elected. And all our candidates will continue to secure victory under our great party,” he affirmed.
Bello also urged the people of Kogi East to sustain the unity and teamwork demonstrated during the recent bye-election, stressing that such collective strength translates into bargaining power and access to the dividends of democracy.
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As part of his appeal, he called on citizens across Kogi State to rally behind the Deputy Governor, Comrade Salihu Joel Oyibo, describing him as a symbol of continuity and inclusiveness in governance.
Earlier, while introducing the newly elected lawmaker to the former governor, the State Auditor-General, Hon. Yusuf Okala, applauded the electorate for their remarkable unity and political maturity, which he said paved the way for the overwhelming success at the polls.
He noted that Hon. Hassan Shado’s emergence was the direct outcome of this collective resolve.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) later confirmed Shado of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the Okura State Constituency seat, securing 55,073 votes to defeat his closest opponent, Godwin Meliga of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 1,038 votes.