Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, describing the former governor as a father figure and political mentor who changed the trajectory of his life.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, and members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) at the APC headquarters in Abuja on Friday, Ododo expressed deep gratitude to Bello, whom he credited for his political rise.
“Any river that forgets its source will soon dry up. My boss, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, is like a father to me. I was not born with a silver spoon,” Ododo declared.
“Where he picked me from and how God used him to elevate me remain fresh in my memory. I will never forget where I came from. I will not and cannot betray him.”
The governor’s remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of Bello, who is currently facing a probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). However, Ododo’s comments appeared aimed at dispelling any perceived rift between him and his embattled predecessor.
Ododo further appealed to supporters to intercede on his behalf if any misunderstanding arises between him and Bello.
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“If he gets angry with me as a father, please, if you observe or you get a feeling that my boss is angry with me, just go and plead with him on my behalf,” he said.
“But as far as I’m concerned, he’s a leader. I can never, and will never betray him.”
The governor’s strong show of allegiance highlights the deep personal and political bond between the two men, which has continued even after the transfer of power in Kogi State.
Ododo’s visit to the APC leadership also comes at a time when party unity and internal cohesion remain critical ahead of the 2027 general elections.