A viral video circulating on social media has shown former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, instructing newly elected state lawmaker Hassan Shado and his supporters to sit on the floor during a meeting in Abuja, while directing them to strictly follow the instructions of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Bello, who hosted members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at his residence on Monday, was presented with Shado, the lawmaker-elect for Dekina-Okura II State Constituency, who won the August 16 by-election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Shado winner with 55,073 votes, defeating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Godwin Meliga, who polled 1,038 votes.
In his address, Bello emphasized that Shado must align fully with the leadership of the state assembly and Governor Ododo. Drawing his ear for emphasis in the video, Bello said:
“As you are going in there now, cooperate with the Speaker, other members of the House, and support Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in everything that comes to the Assembly — even if you don’t understand it.”
The former governor reminded the lawmaker-elect that electoral victories are achieved collectively, stressing the importance of party loyalty, inclusivity, and grassroots support.
“You have been declared winner of this election, but it was not by your effort alone. Your people stood firmly behind you; do not let them down,” he said.
Bello further urged the people of Kogi East to embrace unity, noting that their resounding victory reflected a renewed spirit of togetherness. He also expressed confidence that the APC would retain power at both state and federal levels in future elections.
“I want to assure you that our President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, will be re-elected, Governor Ododo will be re-elected, and our candidates will continue to win on the platform of our great party,” Bello declared.
Background: Bello’s Ongoing EFCC Case
Bello’s appearance in the viral video has reignited discussions about his legal troubles. After leaving office in January 2024, he was accused by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of diverting over ₦110 billion during his eight-year tenure.
He repeatedly evaded arraignment and was declared wanted in April 2024 after security operatives clashed with EFCC officials at his Abuja residence during an attempted arrest. Bello allegedly escaped in Governor Ododo’s convoy.
Following months of evasion and several missed court dates, Bello eventually surrendered to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on November 26, 2024, and is still facing trial.
