Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has denied rumours about contesting the 2027 presidential election. He stated clearly that he has no plans to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
This followed the circulation of a 2022 rally video, which some falsely claimed was the start of Bello’s presidential campaign. In a statement on Friday, Bello’s Media Director, Michael Ohiare, said the video is being used to mislead the public.
“While we state categorically that our principal, Bello, has no 2027 presidential ambition, we also stress his unflinching commitment to the re-election of President Tinubu come 2027,” the statement read.
Bello commended President Tinubu’s leadership and noted progress made despite global economic hurdles.
“The indices cannot lie. The President and his team have done exceedingly well for the country. On merit, he deserves the support of well-meaning Nigerians,” the statement added.
Ohiare described the resurfaced video as the work of mischief makers. He urged Nigerians to ignore the claims surrounding it.
“Nigerians should disregard the mischievous post insinuating a fresh presidential support rally as what it is, a senseless post by a confused, witless mind,” he said.
He pointed out that the banners in the video clearly display the year 2022, proving the footage is outdated.
“The fabricators forgot that the 2022 dates are boldly written on the banners on display. Yet, they expect reasonable people not to notice this,” Ohiare added.
Smear Campaign Allegations
Ohiare also accused Bello’s opponents of spreading false narratives to damage his relationship with President Tinubu.
“The fabricators have tried so hard in their ‘bring-him-down-at-all-costs’ mission against Bello but have always failed woefully,” he said.
He recalled past attempts to create tension between both leaders using similar tactics.
“This latest repost of an old rally video as though it just happened is nothing but sheer mischief,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to stay alert and not fall for political propaganda.
“Nigerians should be wary of witless persons who concoct stories just to please their paymasters,” he warned.
