Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has publicly declared his unwavering loyalty to his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, stating that divine providence used the former governor to elevate him to his current position.
Ododo made these remarks during a courtesy visit to the All Progressives Congress national headquarters in Abuja on Friday.
Speaking after meeting with APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and members of the National Working Committee, Ododo emphasized the paternal relationship he maintains with Bello, describing him as a father figure who transformed his life circumstances. The current governor reflected on his humble beginnings, noting that he was not born into privilege.
“Any river that forgets its source will soon dry up,” Ododo stated, using the metaphor to illustrate his commitment to remembering those who helped shape his political career. He stressed that the memory of how Bello discovered and promoted him remains vivid in his mind, making betrayal an impossibility.
The governor’s comments come amid ongoing speculation about potential tensions within Kogi State’s political leadership following the transition of power. Ododo directly addressed these concerns by making an unprecedented public pledge of loyalty, stating categorically that he cannot and will not betray his political mentor.
In a particularly striking declaration, Ododo compared his relationship with Bello to that of a son and father, arguing that any child who becomes angry with their father loses their authentic filial connection. He positioned himself as someone who would never adopt such an attitude toward his predecessor.
Recognizing the political realities that could create misunderstandings, Ododo made an unusual appeal to his supporters and political observers. He requested that if they ever perceive tension between him and Bello, they should intervene on his behalf by pleading with the former governor to maintain their relationship.
The governor’s public affirmation of loyalty reflects the complex dynamics often present in Nigerian politics, where successor relationships with predecessors can significantly impact governance and political stability. Ododo’s statements suggest an awareness of these dynamics and a deliberate effort to prevent any potential rift that could affect his administration.
His emphasis on divine intervention in his elevation also reflects the religious undertones common in Nigerian political discourse, where leaders often attribute their success to spiritual forces working through human intermediaries. By framing Bello’s role in his rise as part of God’s plan, Ododo adds a spiritual dimension to his political loyalty.
The timing of these declarations, made at the APC national headquarters before party leadership, gives them additional weight and suggests they were intended for both immediate political consumption and broader public awareness. Ododo’s commitment to never forgetting his origins appears designed to reassure both his predecessor and the party hierarchy of his continued allegiance to established political relationships.
