Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has publicly endorsed Leke Abejide for a third term in the House of Representatives, emphasizing the value of experienced lawmakers in shaping national policies and attracting development to their constituencies.
Bello Makes Case for Continuity
Speaking on Sunday, April 19, in Abuja during the 50th birthday celebration of Abejide’s wife, Deaconess Esther Modupe Abejide, which also marked the couple’s 20th wedding anniversary, Bello argued that lawmakers become more effective with each term. He noted that first-term representatives are still learning the ropes, while those in their third term have the networks and understanding to deliver more for their people.
“A first-term lawmaker is still learning the ropes, but by the third term, such a person understands the system and can deliver more for the people,” Bello said. He added that continuity would help the Yagba federal constituency consolidate ongoing projects and secure more opportunities at the federal level.
Call to Join APC
In a significant political move, Bello urged Abejide, currently a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Bello stated that joining the APC would strengthen Abejide’s political influence and access to resources. Addressing the Chief of Staff to President Femi Gbajabiamila, who was present at the event, Bello praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and requested that his appreciation be conveyed to the president.
‘Politics Is Not Turn-by-Turn’
Bello also addressed calls for political rotation within the constituency, particularly from stakeholders in Mopa-Muro who seek to produce the next representative. While acknowledging their aspirations, he urged patience, arguing that legislative service should not be treated as a “turn-by-turn” arrangement when continuity could bring more development.
“It may be your turn, but there is wisdom in timing,” Bello said. He described Abejide as a trustworthy and dependable leader who has served his constituents well.
Gbajabiamila’s Counter-Call
In a contrasting appeal, President Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, urged Abejide to remain in the ADC and scatter the opposition. Gbajabiamila’s comment came amid a legal battle within the ADC, where a faction led by Senator David Mark, supported by opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi, accused Abejide and his camp of disrupting the party’s structure in favor of President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
The event drew political figures and stakeholders from Kogi State, with Bello using the occasion to send a clear political message ahead of the 2027 general elections.
