Date: July 11, 2026 l Reporter: Bill James
Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has sparked fresh political controversy after warning that he would "deal with" individuals he described as "political criminals" if they used the forthcoming election campaigns to malign him, remarks that have drawn attention as political activities begin to intensify ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections.
Bello made the comments on July 9 while speaking at the call-to-bar ceremony of Tijani Lubabatu Ozavize, Esq. Addressing supporters at the event, the former governor said he would not tolerate what he described as defamatory attacks carried out under the guise of political campaigning.
"The political criminals within Kogi State, get ready. The political criminals within Kogi Central, get ready, we are coming at you," Bello said. He added that although he did not mention anyone by name, anyone who considered themselves a "political enemy" or "political criminal" should expect consequences if they defamed him during election campaigns.
Bello further stated that political campaigns should not be used as an excuse to spread false allegations against him, declaring that he would respond to anyone who sought to damage his reputation through political attacks. At the same event, he encouraged residents to support what he described as a new political direction under Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and President Bola Tinubu, while urging young people to remain law-abiding citizens.
The remarks come as political mobilization gradually begins ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties and aspirants already positioning themselves for key contests across Nigeria. Bello has remained one of the most influential political figures in Kogi State despite leaving office in 2024, and he has previously indicated interest in contesting the Kogi Central Senatorial seat.
His comments have also renewed focus on his long-running political rivalry with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District. The two politicians have repeatedly exchanged accusations over governance, political violence, and the treatment of supporters in the state. Akpoti-Uduaghan has alleged intimidation against her supporters, while Bello and his allies have denied those claims and accused her of heightening political tensions.
The former governor's statement has generated criticism from some civil society observers and political commentators, who argue that heated political rhetoric could increase tensions ahead of the next election cycle. They have urged political leaders across party lines to promote peaceful campaigns and respect democratic freedoms, including the rights of opponents to criticize public officials without fear of intimidation.
The controversy also unfolds as Bello continues to face prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The anti-graft agency has charged the former governor with alleged fraud and money laundering involving ₦110.4 billion during his time in office. Bello has pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintains that the case is politically motivated. The matter remains before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings are ongoing.
Political analysts say the latest remarks illustrate how campaigning for the 2027 elections is beginning much earlier than expected, particularly in states where influential former officeholders continue to play major roles in shaping party structures and electoral strategies. They caution that strong political language, while common during election periods, should be carefully managed to avoid escalating tensions or encouraging violence among supporters.
Nigeria has witnessed episodes of election-related violence in previous electoral cycles, prompting repeated appeals from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, religious leaders, and civil society organizations for politicians to conduct issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory statements. Maintaining peaceful political competition is considered essential to strengthening democratic institutions and protecting public confidence in the electoral process.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections continue, attention is likely to remain on influential political figures such as Yahaya Bello, whose statements continue to shape political discourse in Kogi State. Whether the former governor's comments translate into heightened political confrontation or remain part of the increasingly competitive campaign rhetoric will become clearer as parties formally begin election activities in the months ahead.