In the heart of the Savannah, a hibernating white lion lay dormant, waiting for its moment to rise. Governor Yahaya Bello, once ousted by Prince Abubakar Audu, returned to the political scene after Audu’s untimely death.
Like a wounded lion, Bello emerged as the Governor of Kogi State, defying all odds. For eight years, he ruled with an iron fist, meting out swift justice to any wrongdoing. His reign was marked by a mix of progress and controversy, leaving behind a legacy of both good and bad.
Through his initiatives, Bello spent more time in Abuja, particularly in Zone 4, where he allegedly squandered 80 billion Naira from the state treasury. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) later traced thousands of dollars sent to an American school account for his children’s school fees.
The story of Kogi State mirrors the fictional nation of Kangan in the novel “Anthills of the Savannah”. Both have experienced political turmoil, with leaders prioritizing personal interests over the people’s welfare. The once-promising nation of Kangan has been plagued by paranoia and danger, much like the tumultuous reign of Governor Bello
“Yahaya Bello emerged as the runner-up in the election, trailing behind the late Prince Abubakar Audu. However, with Prince Audu’s untimely passing, fate and destiny intervened, leading to Bello’s ascension as the 4th democratically elected Governor of Kogi State.
Ƙabiru Haruna is the Asstant Director
Information and Public Relations
Federal ministry of information