Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has issued queries to eight Local Government Chairmen in the eastern district of the state following the All Progressives Congress (APC) defeat in the recently concluded Governorship election. The affected chairmen represent Omala, Ofu, Dekina, Ankpa, Olamaboro, Ibaji, Igalame/Odolu, and Idah local government areas.
Reportedly expressing disappointment during a stakeholders’ meeting with party members last week, Governor Bello accused the chairmen of failing to meet expectations despite being mobilized to secure victory for the APC in their respective local government areas. The governor raised concerns about the chairmen allegedly collecting money from the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaib Abubarkar Audu, for “mobilization votes,” even after receiving significant funds from the Government House.
Bello emphasized that the mobilization funds seemingly ended up in private pockets and were not utilized for their intended purpose. He announced plans to send a questionnaire to the chairmen, demanding explanations for the poor performance and alleged misuse of funds. The chairmen are expected to submit their responses by midday on Tuesday.
There are indications that the tenure of the chairmen, which expires on December 12, 2023, might be cut short before the specified date. Rumors suggest that they could be required to refund the mobilization funds they received prior to the election.
