In the history of mankind, only the Prophets are known to have lived without mistakes because they acted strictly on divine revelation. Every other human being, no matter how good or wise, must have made a mistake at some point in life. We are not God, and we are not Prophets.
But there’s a difference between people who knowingly do wrong and those who act with pure intentions, believing they are doing what is right for the people even if the outcome is not always perfect. The latter are better, because their hearts are clean.
I see this difference clearly when I look at the story of Kogi State before and during the leadership of H. E. Alh. Yahaya Bello (FGYB).
Before his time, we had other governors, and to be fair, they all played their parts. They did their best according to their knowledge and the times they served. But something new came with FGYB. His leadership didn’t just add another chapter to Kogi’s history; it rewrote the narrative entirely.
When he came in, many doubted him. Some said he was too young. Others said he would be like those before him. But he came prepared, with fresh ideas, courage, and a clear vision of what Kogi could become.
Under his watch, Kogi transformed. The state that was once known for unrest became the most peaceful state in Northern Nigeria, a huge achievement for a land that shares borders with at least nine states.
Those who knew how tense elections used to be, especially in Kogi Central, would agree that things changed completely during his tenure. We recorded the most peaceful elections in our history. Kogi West also enjoyed lasting peace and stability.
When FGYB spoke, you could feel the strength of leadership in his voice. Even without seeing him, you would know that this was a man born to lead. And when you finally saw him, the confidence, the composure, the presence, it confirmed everything.
He believed in decentralizing power, making sure every senatorial district had someone to report to, someone responsible and accountable. That system made governance smoother and gave people a sense of ownership in decision-making.
One of the most touching parts of his leadership was how he gave women a voice. Before him, women were rarely given opportunities to lead despite their sacrifices and contributions. But by the end of his tenure, women were occupying leadership positions at different levels. He didn’t just talk about inclusion, he made it real.
The same goes for the youth. FGYB was the first governor in Kogi’s history to truly believe that leadership has nothing to do with age. He opened doors that were previously locked and gave young people a chance to prove themselves. He built new leaders, not recycled ones.
He also achieved what no one before him did, building two state universities during his tenure, and appointing a Vice Chancellor from another tribe at Prince Abubakar Audu University, against what it used to be before he came. That single act showed he saw everyone as one family, beyond ethnic or political lines.
He didn’t stop there. He built a church inside the Government House, proving that he was a leader for all, Christians, Muslims, and everyone in between. That level of tolerance and understanding is rare in politics today.
By the time he was leaving office, unemployment had reduced, communities had hope again, and many homes that had no one to call a leader now had one. He brought out leaders from among ordinary people.
FGYB came, saw, conquered, and changed the story of Kogi State. He is not a saint but he is better than many who came before him.
And I say this not because I know him or have ever met him. I’ve never stood before him, never spoken to him, never even seen him up close. But I have seen the impact of his leadership across the state, and I know what Kogi used to be before his time.
This is just the truth from a son of Kogi, speaking from the heart, not out of politics, but out of gratitude.
– Engr Ira Habib writes from Kogi state.
