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Yahaya Bello Will Emerge Stronger from Fraud Allegations – Rep Agbese

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Yahaya Bello Will Emerge Stronger from Fraud Allegations – Rep Agbese

 

Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives has defended former Kogi State, Governor Yahaya Bello, asserting that he will emerge stronger from the ongoing money laundering allegations levelled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Speaking yesterday outside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja, Agbese stood in solidarity with Bello, describing the trial as a test of a patriot’s resilience rather than evidence of wrongdoing.

In an impassioned address to journalists and supporters gathered after Thursday’s court proceedings, the lawmaker representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency described Bello as a leader of unblemished integrity.

“Yahaya Bello is one Nigerian who cannot and will never steal a dime from the public purse,” he declared emphatically.

“I have known Yahaya for over two decades, and I can vouch for his character as a patriot, a nationalist, and a man wholly dedicated to the progress of his people.

“This is not a trial of a corrupt politician; it is the trial of a patriot who left Lugard House [Kogi State Government House] poorer than he entered it, having poured his heart and resources into transforming Kogi State.”

Agbese emphasized the former governor’s selflessness and commitment to public service.

“In my over 20 years of knowing Yahaya Bello, I have seen a man who consistently placed the welfare of his people above personal gain,” he said.

“When he assumed office in 2016, Kogi was grappling with infrastructural decay, insecurity, and economic stagnation.

“Bello changed that narrative through bold reforms, youth empowerment programs, and massive investments in roads, healthcare, and education. He didn’t amass wealth for himself; instead, he left office with a leaner pocket but a richer legacy of service. Nigerians must recognize that what we are witnessing is a politically orchestrated attempt to tarnish the image of a man who dared to prioritize governance over personal enrichment.”

The lawmaker urged Nigerians to look beyond the EFCC’s allegations, which he described as “a smokescreen designed to distract from Bello’s transformative achievements.”

He highlighted Bello’s tenure as one marked by fiscal discipline and transparency. “Under Bello’s watch, Kogi State saw unprecedented development,” Agbese noted.

“From the construction of the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre to the establishment of the Kogi State University Teaching Hospital in Anyigba, Bello’s projects were tangible and people-centered. He introduced free education policies, empowered women and youths, and tackled insecurity head-on, making Kogi safer.

“These are not the actions of a man who loots public funds. I am confident that when the dust settles, Yahaya Bello will walk out of this trial not just vindicated but stronger, with his reputation as a patriot intact.”

Agbese also called on Nigerians to critically evaluate the motives behind the EFCC’s pursuit. “This case is less about accountability and more about settling political scores,” he asserted.

“Bello’s rising profile as a young, dynamic leader who delivered results made him a target for those who feel threatened by his influence.

“Nigerians should ask: why is a man who left office without a single personal mansion or offshore account being hounded? The answer lies in the politics of envy and vendetta. But truth is resilient, and Yahaya Bello’s truth will prevail.”

“Yahaya Bello represents the hope of a new generation of leaders who prioritize service over self,” Agbese concluded.

“This trial will only strengthen his resolve and amplify his voice as a champion of the people. Nigerians should stand with him, for in defending Bello, we defend the very idea of patriotic governance.”

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APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition

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*APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition*

 

The APC National Vanguard has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support a second term in office for Siminalayi Fubara, citing what it described as “impressive and verifiable developmental strides” across Rivers State.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National President, Dr Gbenga Salam (JP), the group said its position followed an extensive assessment tour of key infrastructure and public service projects executed under the Fubara administration.

The APC National Vanguard said the appeal was based strictly on performance, arguing that governance outcomes should outweigh partisan considerations, particularly in a state as economically significant as Rivers.

“We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress to support the continuity of Governor Siminalayi Fubara beyond his current tenure, in recognition of his commitment to development, prudent resource management, and people-focused governance,” the statement read.

According to the group, its delegation visited multiple project sites across the state, observing ongoing and completed works spanning road construction, urban renewal, and public infrastructure upgrades.

It noted that the scale and distribution of these projects reflect a deliberate effort by the state government to extend development beyond traditional urban centres and into underserved communities.

“Our findings from the tour reveal a government that is not only active but intentional in its development agenda. The execution of capital projects across various parts of Rivers State demonstrates a clear understanding of the needs of the people and a commitment to addressing them,” Dr Salam said.

The group particularly commended what it described as prudent financial management by the administration, noting that the projects reviewed showed evidence of careful planning and efficient allocation of resources.

“At a time when economic pressures are evident across the country, it is commendable that the Rivers State government has managed its resources in a way that delivers visible and impactful development without signs of fiscal recklessness,” the statement added.

The APC National Vanguard further observed that despite political tensions in the state, the Fubara administration has maintained focus on governance, ensuring continuity in project execution and service delivery.

The group argued that such stability is critical for sustained development and should be encouraged rather than disrupted.

“Leadership must ultimately be judged by results. In Rivers State, there is clear evidence of progress—projects that are not only announced but executed, and policies that translate into real benefits for citizens,” Dr Salam noted.

The group warned that discontinuity in leadership could stall ongoing projects and reverse gains already recorded, stressing the importance of allowing a performing administration to consolidate its achievements.

“Rivers State is at a pivotal stage where continuity will allow for the completion of ongoing initiatives and the deepening of development gains. Supporting Governor Fubara for a second term is, therefore, a decision in the best interest of the people,” the statement said.

In addition to its call on the APC leadership, the group reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, expressing confidence in his administration’s broader economic and governance reforms.

The APC group urged Nigerians to remain supportive of efforts aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening public institutions.

“We reiterate our endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to national development. With sustained support, the administration can consolidate its reform agenda for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Dr Salam added.

The APC National Vanguard concluded by calling on political actors to prioritise development and public interest over partisan divides, insisting that governance should always be guided by performance and accountability.

“Where leadership demonstrates prudence, delivers development, and remains focused on the welfare of the people, it deserves continuity. This is the position we have reached after a careful and independent assessment of Rivers State,” the statement added.

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Renewed Hope Ambassadors Shift to Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

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Renewed Hope Ambassadors Shift to Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

*Renewed Hope Ambassadors Step Into the Next Phase

 

Fresh from the successful APC 2026 National Convention, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors National, Zonal, and State leadership gathered in Abuja over the weekend, for its fourth strategic meeting, setting the tone for nationwide grassroots activation ahead of 2027.

Chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma (Imo State) the Director General and National Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, alongside Deputy Director-General, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State as Secretary, the session reinforced one clear direction: One Party. One Message. One Mobilization whilst also laying out a strategic roadmap for the activation of the network across all communities in Nigeria.

Backed by the strength of 31 APC-led states, the Renewed Hope Agenda is taking Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of progress and reform to every corner of Nigeria.

From bold economic restructuring to initiatives like NELFUND, the increase in the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, and strategic investments in critical sectors, including PNiCGI, the mission remains clear: helping Nigerians understand both the purpose and the progress of the Renewed Hope vision.

This is coordination at scale. This is grassroots engagement with purpose. This is the next phase of Renewed Hope with One Party, One Message, and One Mobilisation framework

#RenewedHopeAmbassadors #APC #WeAreAPC

 

Renewed Hope Ambassadors Shift to Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

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Governor Bago Inaugurates APC Digital Media Sub-Committee Ahead of National Convention

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Governor Bago Inaugurates APC Digital Media Sub-Committee Ahead of National Convention.

 

Governor Umaru Bago has inaugurated the Digital Media Sub-Committee for the forthcoming National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), scheduled to hold on March 27 and 28, 2026 in Abuja.

 

Chairing the sub-committee, Governor Bago tasked members with the responsibility of effectively communicating the party’s manifesto to the public.

 

He emphasized the need to leverage social media platforms to highlight the achievements and ongoing efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that communication gaps have posed challenges that must now be decisively addressed.

 

The Co-Chair of the sub-committee, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, echoed the Governor’s position, urging members to project the activities of both the party and the government to a broader audience.

 

He called for a deliberate and coordinated effort to showcase the party’s achievements and policy direction, stressing the importance of shaping a compelling and consistent narrative across all digital platforms.

 

Delivering a presentation to the committee, Otega Ogra, SSA to the President on New Media, who serves as Secretary of the sub-committee, outlined strategic focus areas to guide the team’s operations.

 

His presentation highlighted communication priorities and actionable steps to achieve the committee’s mandate and strengthen the party’s digital engagement.

 

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