The former governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has denied having any intention to run against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, describing speculation to the contrary as “mischievous and baseless.”
In a statement issued on Friday by his media director, Michael Ohiare, Mr Bello expressed dismay over the circulation of an old video from a 2022 political rally, which some online commentators have claimed signals the start of a fresh presidential campaign.
“We state categorically that our principal, Bello, has no 2027 presidential ambition,” the statement read. “He remains firmly committed to the re-election of President Tinubu, who has performed admirably in office despite global economic challenges.”
The statement went on to describe the viral post as a deliberate act of misinformation. “Nigerians should disregard the mischievous post insinuating a fresh presidential support rally—it is nothing but a senseless fabrication by confused individuals,” it continued.
Images from the rally in question clearly bear the 2022 date, Mr Ohiare noted, accusing political opponents of attempting to sow discord between Mr Bello and President Tinubu.
“This is not the first time detractors have peddled falsehoods in a desperate bid to drive a wedge between the former governor and the President,” Ohiare said. “But reposting a 2022 event as if it were new is the height of mischief.”
He added that such tactics are part of a broader campaign to discredit the former governor, insisting these efforts have repeatedly failed.
Mr Bello served as governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024. His tenure was marked by both praise and criticism, and he remains an influential figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
