The Media Office of former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has denied allegations that he is a sponsor of the ongoing #Endbadgovernance protests nationwide.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by Michael Ohiare, the office dismissed these claims as part of a larger scheme by adversaries to falsely implicate Bello.
The statement, distributed to journalists in Lokoja, read, “We have identified a sophisticated plot by certain malicious elements and detractors of Alhaji Yahaya Bello to frame him as a backer of the #Endbadgovernance protests occurring across the country.
“We initially chose to ignore the baseless accusations from an attention-seeking criminal and blackmailer, who published a fabricated and unfounded report about His Excellency’s alleged involvement in the protests. However, it is crucial to address these false allegations due to their implications for national security. Our determination is further solidified by the disturbing actions of some protesters who have been displaying foreign flags.”
The statement condemned the allegations as “reckless and malicious,” asserting that Bello is a patriot dedicated to fostering a united and prosperous Nigeria. It highlighted Bello’s past efforts to mediate a significant conflict between the North and South, preventing a major crisis in Nigeria.
“What could have disrupted our fragile unity was resolved through negotiations facilitated by Alhaji Yahaya Bello when he intervened between northern food transporters and their southern counterparts, ensuring the continuation of food exchange between the regions. This action earned him commendation from national leaders at the time.”
The media office also emphasized Bello’s consistent support for President Bola Tinubu, recalling his efforts during the 2023 presidential election. “In the lead-up to the presidential poll, various political and economic challenges, including the naira redesign policy, were addressed. Yahaya Bello, along with his colleagues, secured a Supreme Court judgment against the policy, a significant intervention during a critical period for the nation.”
Ohiare noted that during the election, Bello mobilized Kogi residents to secure a victory for President Tinubu and actively engaged the youth nationwide as the APC Youth Mobilisation Committee Chairman, reflecting his belief in President Tinubu’s leadership.
Despite his efforts, Bello’s location has remained unknown since the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission declared him wanted for an alleged N80.2 billion fraud. Although Bello is a prominent member of the APC and an ally of President Tinubu, there is no record of Tinubu intervening to halt the criminal case or protect the former governor.
