Without Yahaya Bello, APC Risks Losing Kogi in 2027—Commissioner Warns

The political landscape of Kogi APC has been stirred by a bold statement from the Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Bashir Gegu, who warned that the All Progressives Congress (APC) may lose its grip on the state in the 2027 general elections if former Governor Yahaya Bello is sidelined by President Bola Tinubu and the party’s national leadership. Gegu issued the warning during a political gathering in Kogi Local Government Area, where he cautioned that Bello’s political influence remains pivotal to the APC’s continued dominance in the state.

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Addressing party supporters, the commissioner emphasized that Yahaya Bello, who governed the state from 2016 to 2024, was the “architect of Kogi’s political stability” and a “decisive force” behind the APC’s successive victories. According to Gegu, any attempt to undermine or exclude Bello from the state’s political decision-making process would spell disaster for the ruling party in future elections.

In a statement later shared on his Facebook page, Gegu reiterated his position, saying, “If former Governor Yahaya Bello is not carried along, APC cannot win Kogi State. That is the plain truth.” The declaration has since generated heated discussions among political observers and stakeholders, many of whom view it as a direct message to the national leadership of the party ahead of the 2027 polls.

Yahaya Bello’s Political Legacy in Kogi

The commissioner’s remarks reflect the enduring influence of Yahaya Bello in Kogi politics. Widely known for his assertive leadership style and strong control of political structures, Bello remains one of the most prominent figures in the state’s political history. During his tenure, he built an extensive grassroots network that helped the APC secure major electoral victories across all three senatorial districts.

Gegu credited Bello with laying the foundation for the state’s current political stability and increased federal relevance. He noted that Bello’s administration expanded the APC’s influence at both the local and national levels, ensuring the party’s dominance in Kogi’s political arena. “The former governor’s legacy cannot be wished away,” Gegu said. “His influence cuts across the three senatorial districts, and his contributions to the growth of the APC in Kogi remain unmatched.”

Defending the Lokoja Rally

The commissioner also used the occasion to defend a recent rally held in Lokoja, which had drawn criticism from opposition voices and some social media commentators. The event, which saw massive turnout from APC supporters, was perceived in some quarters as a veiled political show of strength by Yahaya Bello loyalists.

However, Gegu dismissed such claims, clarifying that the rally was not about power tussle or factional politics but an expression of gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the incumbent governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for their leadership and support. “The rally was a show of appreciation, not a protest,” he explained. “But let no one make the mistake—without Yahaya Bello, there’s no APC victory in Kogi.”

According to Gegu, Bello’s continued involvement in Kogi’s political processes is essential for maintaining party unity and voter confidence. He warned against alienating key stakeholders who played crucial roles in building the APC’s strong foundation in the state, arguing that unity within the party remains the surest path to electoral success.

The Tinubu Factor and Kogi’s Political Balance

Political analysts believe Gegu’s warning reflects growing anxiety among Bello’s loyalists over what they perceive as the former governor’s declining influence at the national level. Since leaving office, Bello’s political relationship with President Tinubu has been the subject of speculation, particularly amid ongoing legal and corruption-related controversies surrounding his administration.

Despite these challenges, Bello still commands significant support among Kogi’s political class and grassroots supporters, many of whom credit him for prioritizing youth participation and infrastructural development during his tenure. Analysts argue that ignoring Bello’s political structure could fracture the APC’s base in the state, potentially giving opposition parties an opening ahead of the next general elections.

Kogi, known for its strategic position as a gateway between northern and southern Nigeria, has consistently played a vital role in national politics. The APC has maintained control of the state since 2015, largely due to Yahaya Bello’s consolidation of political power and his ability to mobilize diverse groups across ethnic and regional lines.

Reactions and Implications

Gegu’s statement has elicited mixed reactions from political observers. While supporters of the former governor have applauded the commissioner for “speaking the truth,” others view the remark as a veiled attempt to pressure the APC leadership into reinstating Bello’s influence within the national political structure.

Some political commentators also warned that such statements could reignite factional tensions within the state chapter of the APC, especially if perceived as a challenge to Governor Ododo’s authority. However, Gegu was quick to clarify that his remarks were not meant to undermine the current administration. Rather, he said, his concern was to ensure that the political unity and momentum built under Bello’s leadership are not lost.

“The truth must be told,” Gegu stated. “Governor Ododo is doing well, and we thank President Tinubu for his continued support. But politically, Yahaya Bello remains the pillar of APC in Kogi. Without him, we risk losing everything we’ve worked for.”

As the 2027 elections approach, the dynamics between the Tinubu-led federal leadership, Governor Ododo, and former Governor Yahaya Bello are expected to shape the APC’s strategy in Kogi. While the party continues to enjoy dominance in the state, analysts warn that internal divisions or attempts to sideline influential figures could weaken its chances.

For now, Bashir Gegu’s warning serves as a reminder of the complex web of loyalty and influence that defines Kogi politics—where personalities, not just policies, continue to shape the fate of political parties.