Yahaya Bello: White Lion or White Chicken?

Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi State, once proudly dubbed himself the “White Lion,” exuding audacity and confidence akin to a lion strutting about its pride. However, recent events have painted a starkly different picture, depicting the once-bold lion as a timid chicken, scurrying away from accountability and scrutiny.

Following his formal exit from office last year, Bello has found himself embroiled in a whirlwind of controversy, particularly surrounding the expenditure of over N80 billion during his tenure. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has honed in on these allegations, prompting Bello to evade facing the music, earning him comparisons to a feeble-hearted rat fleeing from accountability.

Bello’s ascent to power, marked by questionable circumstances following the demise of the winner of the 2015 governorship election in Kogi State, Prince Abubakar Audu, showcased his youthfulness as a defining feature. However, his subsequent performance during his eight-year tenure laid bare the limitations of age as the sole criterion for leadership suitability. Despite his youth, Bello’s tenure was allegedly characterised by a lack of discipline, vision, and integrity, painting him as the epitome of indolence and vacuity in leadership.

The former governor’s reaction to the EFCC’s invitation reflects a sense of entitlement and defiance, as he attempts to evade accountability for his actions. However, such behaviour only serves to exacerbate public scrutiny and raise questions about his perceived immunity from the law.

Comparisons to past governors who willingly submitted themselves to the scrutiny of anti-corruption agencies, such as Bola Tinubu and Ayo Fayose, highlight the contrast in attitudes towards accountability. While these leaders faced allegations head-on and cooperated with investigations, Bello’s reluctance to do the same only cast further doubt on his integrity and leadership capabilities.

In the face of mounting allegations and public scrutiny, Bello’s legacy as the “White Lion” of Kogi State appears to be crumbling, revealing the vulnerabilities and shortcomings beneath his once-imposing facade.