By SUNDAY UNEKWUOJO SAMSON | October 19, 2025 | Abuja
Former Kogi State governorship candidate and political leader, Alhaji Yakubu Murtala Ajaka, has openly criticized former Governor Yahaya Bello, describing his recent political activities as “a well-staged charade” aimed at gaining undue relevance and misleading President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
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| formal governor yahaya Bello & Muritala Ajaka |
Ajaka, a former stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who later contested the 2023 Kogi governorship election under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), said Bello’s latest attempts to portray himself as a political mobilizer for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections are “deceptive and insulting” to the intelligence of Kogi people.
In a statement released on Sunday, Ajaka said Yahaya Bello, who remains under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other security agencies for multiple corruption-related offenses, lacks the moral and political standing to claim any meaningful influence in Kogi State’s political affairs.
“This is someone who could not even deliver his own senatorial district during the last elections,” Ajaka stated. “The same Yahaya Bello who lost to the PDP in both the Senate and House of Representatives contests within his supposed stronghold is now pretending he can deliver Kogi State in 2027. Such claims are deceitful and insulting to the intelligence of our people.”
Ajaka accused Bello of attempting to use intimidation and propaganda to remain politically relevant, even after what he called a “disastrous tenure” that left Kogi State deeply divided and underdeveloped.
According to him, President Tinubu needs genuine performers and honest allies who can drive development, not individuals who thrive on manipulation and self-promotion.
“President Tinubu, as a wise and experienced politician, should not be misled by such antics. Yahaya Bello’s era of manipulation and deceit is over. The people are now more conscious and will not be used as pawns in anyone’s political games,” he added.
“Performance, Not Propaganda”
Ajaka noted that Nigerians have become more politically aware since 2023, adding that the electorate now focuses on visible results, transparency, and good governance rather than party loyalty or financial inducements.
“The Nigerian electorate has become more discerning,” he said. “They will vote based on performance, not fear or intimidation. When the time is right, credible individuals with true political voice and moral standing will rise to lead Kogi State to a better future.”
He argued that Yahaya Bello’s record in office does not inspire confidence, pointing to the state’s poor infrastructure, rising unemployment, and reports of unpaid salaries that dominated his administration.
“For eight years, Kogi suffered neglect and hardship. Civil servants were owed salaries for months, roads were left to deteriorate, and insecurity grew worse in several local governments,” Ajaka said. “That is not the kind of legacy any leader should be proud of.”
EFCC Investigation and Public Perception
Bello’s name has continued to appear in public discussions over corruption and mismanagement since leaving office in early 2024. In April 2025, reports emerged that the EFCC renewed investigations into alleged diversion of over ₦80 billion during his tenure as governor.
Though Bello has denied wrongdoing and described the investigations as “politically motivated,” analysts say his legal troubles have weakened his influence within the APC, particularly among younger politicians seeking reform within the party.
Ajaka referenced these developments in his statement, arguing that no politician currently facing integrity questions should be allowed to shape the image of the ruling party ahead of 2027.
“You cannot claim to be loyal to President Tinubu while your past is still under investigation. What message does that send to Nigerians who are hoping for a new era of accountability?” he asked.
He stressed that Kogi people are tired of being misrepresented and deserve a leader who will prioritize development over drama.
A Message to President Tinubu
Ajaka appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to look beyond personal loyalty and focus on performance as the true measure of political partnership.
“President Tinubu’s success will depend on his ability to deliver on his promises to Nigerians,” he said. “What he needs are competent hands, not praise singers or people trying to buy political protection through flattery.”
According to Ajaka, the President should pay attention to credible feedback from the grassroots, where citizens are still struggling with the effects of economic reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate adjustments.
“Our people want jobs, not slogans. They want roads, not empty rallies. If the government truly listens, it will realize that Nigerians are becoming more politically mature. They can see through deception,” Ajaka said.
Political Analysts React
Ajaka’s comments have sparked reactions among political watchers in Kogi State and beyond. Some analysts say his statement reflects a growing division within the APC, especially among leaders in the North Central zone.
One of political analyst speaking to Pulse360 News, said the rift between Bello and Ajaka mirrors “a larger battle for control of the political structure in Kogi ahead of 2027.”
“Bello still has supporters in the APC, but his influence has reduced significantly,” Azeez noted. “Ajaka represents a new kind of political energy, younger, outspoken, and unafraid to challenge the old order. His comments show that the 2027 race in Kogi will be heavily contested.”
Another commentator, who is public affairs analyst based in Lokoja, described Ajaka’s statement as a “wake-up call” to the ruling party.
“It’s not just about Kogi,” she said. “Across Nigeria, people are demanding results. You cannot intimidate voters anymore with power or propaganda. People want leaders who can deliver.”
The Battle for Kogi 2027
Kogi remains one of the politically sensitive states in the North Central region. With its ethnic diversity and strategic location, it often serves as a microcosm of Nigeria’s broader political climate.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, internal realignments are already taking shape. Yahaya Bello, despite his controversies, still commands loyalty among sections of the APC, especially within his Ebira ethnic base. Ajaka, on the other hand, continues to consolidate his influence across the state through grassroots outreach and policy-driven advocacy.
Observers believe that Ajaka’s strong showing in the 2023 election. despite running under a smaller party — established him as a major force in Kogi politics. Many believe his recent statement is not only a criticism of Bello but also a signal that he intends to remain active and visible ahead of the next poll.
Kogi’s Future and the People’s Voice
Ajaka concluded his statement by emphasizing that Kogi State’s progress depends on visionary leadership and genuine governance reforms, not on manipulation or political drama.
“Kogi deserves better than what we have seen in recent years,” he said. “We are rich in potential, but that potential can only be realized by leaders who care about the people, not those who see power as a personal business.”
He further stressed that the people of Kogi are more united now in their demand for transparency and accountability, adding that no amount of intimidation can change the tide of public opinion.
“The era of deceitful politics and intimidation is gone for good,” Ajaka concluded. “Our democracy has matured, and our people now understand that performance, not propaganda, is what counts.”
As Nigeria prepares for another election cycle, Ajaka’s words reflect a growing sentiment among many citizens who believe that the country’s politics must evolve from personality cults to performance-driven governance. Whether his message will influence the national conversation or remain confined to Kogi State politics remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the battle for credibility in Nigerian politics is far from over.