Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has firmly denied rumours suggesting he is preparing to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, describing such claims as false, mischievous, and misleading.
The denial came in a statement issued on Friday by Michael Ohiare, Bello’s Media Director, following the circulation of an old video from a 2022 presidential campaign rally which falsely claimed to show Bello launching a fresh presidential bid against President Tinubu.
Ohiare clarified that the video in question was from an event held before the 2023 general election. The date, clearly marked 2022 on the banners, exposes the malicious intent behind its recent re-circulation.
Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, expressed unwavering loyalty to President Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda.
He emphasized that he is not only uninterested in running for president in 2027 but is also committed to working for Tinubu’s re-election.
“The indices do not lie. President Tinubu and his team have done exceedingly well, especially considering the global economic and security challenges. On merit, he deserves the support of all well-meaning Nigerians,” Ohiare stated.
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He urged the public to ignore the “senseless post,” which he described as the handiwork of confused, witless minds and paid political saboteurs seeking to cause division within the All Progressives Congress.
Ohiare said this was not the first attempt by political opponents to sow discord between Bello and Tinubu, citing previous false claims intended to damage the former governor’s reputation.
He added that despite multiple failed attempts to bring down Bello, the former governor remains focused on contributing to national development and party unity.
Media analysts and political commentators have condemned the use of recycled content and misinformation tactics to create a false political narrative.
The video, allegedly repurposed with a misleading caption and timeline, was quickly shared across social media platforms before fact-checkers intervened.
Ohiare concluded by warning the public to remain vigilant and skeptical of politically charged content circulating online without verification.
He reiterated that Yahaya Bello stands solidly behind President Tinubu’s leadership and re-election campaign.
NAN
