As the 2023 gubernatorial election in Kogi State draws near, there have been various speculations on who should succeed Governor Yahaya Bello. Some people have argued that the governor owes certain individuals the ticket to become his successor. However, it is important to note that Governor Yahaya Bello does not owe anyone the ticket to become his successor.
Before Governor Yahaya Bello became the governor of Kogi State in 2016, most people in government today were all struggling politicians. However, Bello’s emergence as the governor changed the political landscape of the state and the fortune of many people.
To mention but a few, we can not deny the fact that Bello made the state Accountant General. He also lifed Edward Onoja to become his Chief of Staff and now Deputy Governor. He made Asuku Asuku, who was the Director-General of Protocol and now his Chief of Staff. The Auditor General state and Local Government, Okala and Ododo respectively.
Additionally, he blessed the Finance Commissioner, Asiwaju Asiru and also the Local Government and Chieftaincy affairs commissioner, Deedat Ozigi, with such top position in his administration. He also recommended Hon. Muri for deputy national publicity secretary of the party amongst others.
The governor has rewarded everybody in his government and as such, he does not owe anybody the ticket to become his successor. It is important to note that it is the governor’s prerogative to choose who he believes is best suited to continue his legacies in Kogi State.
Governor Yahaya Bello has watched these people work on various offices and chosen his successor based on certain key factors best known to him. Firstly, he has chosen someone who will be loyal to him even after leaving office. This is important because whoever succeeds him will be carrying on his legacy and agenda for the state. It is therefore necessary to have someone who is willing to continue with his policies and programs, as well, listen to him.
Secondly, the governor must have considered individual’s character and respect. This is important because whoever succeeds him will be representing the entire state, and it is necessary to have someone who can relate well with people from different backgrounds. Someone who has respect for the leaders of the state and a peace loving person.
Thirdly, on tribal and ethnic agenda, with the Kogi east having ruled for over 19years, the clamour for power to go back to the Igalas is insensitive to some quarters. The push for 16-16-16 remains remains the most equitable to many persons. However, another chunk of Kogites believe the governorship position should go to the West who haven’t ruled the state in the number one position. With Bello’s endorsement of Ododo, the Kogi Central will likely continue their much demanded 16years Kogi Governorship office.
Lastly, Governor Yahaya Bello’s choice, Usman Ododo, is someone who has been proven to have a good track record of giving back to the people and initiating visionary legacies and projects for the state.
In conclusion, Governor Yahaya Bello does not owe anyone the ticket to become his successor. It is his prerogative to choose who he believes is best suited to continue his legacies in Kogi State and who will represent the best interest of the Kogi people, this he has just done.
