The media office of former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has revealed a scheme by some adversaries to falsely implicate him as a sponsor of the #EndBadGovernance protests nationwide.
A statement by Ohiare Michael from the ex-governor’s media office asserts, “We categorically and unequivocally state that HE Alh Yahaya Bello has no involvement and will never engage in any action that destabilizes the country or disturbs the peace, harmony, and greatness of our nation.”
The statement accuses Jackson Ude, a Nigerian journalist based abroad, of spreading false accusations against the former governor, emphasizing the need to address these baseless claims due to their implications for national security.
“We consider Jackson Ude’s claims as reckless and malicious. Yahaya Bello is a patriot who has devoted his resources and energy to building a united and prosperous Nigeria,” the statement read.
It highlighted Yahaya Bello’s efforts in resolving a major conflict between Northern and Southern food transporters, which could have escalated into a national crisis, earning commendations from national leaders.
The statement also recalled Bello’s role in challenging the Naira Redesign Policy before the 2023 Presidential Poll, securing a Supreme Court judgment that prevented economic turmoil.
During the Presidential Poll, Yahaya Bello mobilized Kogi State voters to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, demonstrating his commitment to the President’s leadership.
The statement dismissed Ude’s social media claims of Yahaya Bello’s involvement in an alleged scheme to incite a military coup as further attempts by powerful figures to create a rift between the President and Bello.
The ex-governor’s media office accused Ude of being linked to criminal interests and engaging in defamation and blackmail.
“Former Governor Yahaya Bello is a patriot and democrat who will never undermine Nigeria’s democratic status. He remains loyal and committed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” the statement continued.
The media office called on the Police, Department of State Services, and other agencies to investigate Ude’s claims thoroughly, treating them as matters of national security.
“We will pursue all necessary legal actions to hold Ude accountable for his alleged crimes,” the statement asserted.
Even in difficult times, Yahaya Bello has supported the All Progressives Congress government and will continue to work for Nigeria’s progress and stability. He remains dedicated to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The statement urged intelligence agencies to investigate the unpatriotic actions of Jackson Ude and encouraged the public to disregard the falsehoods, supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to restore the nation’s greatness.
