Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has issued a stern warning to what he called “political criminals” in Kogi Central, saying he will confront anyone who uses campaign season to malign him ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Bello made the statement on July 9, 2026, while speaking at the call-to-bar ceremony of Tijani Lubabatu Ozavize, Esq. in Kogi State.
Addressing a crowd of supporters, the former governor said: “The political criminals within us in Kogi State, get ready. The political criminals within Kogi Central, get ready, we are coming at you.
“I didn’t mention anybody’s name, but if you turn yourself to be that political enemy, that political criminal, criminality is criminality. You cannot tell me that as a result of campaign, that it is political season, you use your mouth to malign me, I will deal with you. I will come against you.”
Bello, who is currently facing prosecution over alleged fraud, also called for a new approach to politics in the state. He expressed support for Governor Usman Ododo and President Bola Tinubu, saying they would “lead us to the promised land.” He further urged parents to raise law-abiding children and cited Hajia Habiba as a role model.
The comments come amid heightened political activity in Kogi ahead of 2027. Bello has been in a long-running public dispute with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central. He has repeatedly criticized her political activities, while she has accused him and his allies of intimidation and violence against her supporters. Both sides have denied the allegations against them. The feud has played out in the media, at public events, and in court.
Bello is also answering charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The EFCC is prosecuting him at the Federal High Court in Abuja over an alleged N110.4 billion fraud and money laundering case linked to his time as governor. Prosecutors claim public funds were diverted through various transactions, including payments for luxury properties and school fees, in breach of anti-money laundering laws.
Bello has pleaded not guilty and insists the charges are politically motivated. The trial has so far included witness testimony, financial records, and arguments from both the prosecution and defense.
