Yahaya Bello Receives 17-Member APC Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee in Abuja
Former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON, on Wednesday received members of the 17-member All Progressives Congress (APC) Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee at his residence in Asokoro, Abuja, as efforts to strengthen party unity and reconciliation ahead of the 2027 general elections continue.
The delegation, led by its Chairman and former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Captain Idris Wada, briefed Bello on the committee's activities, consultations and progress made since its inauguration by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on September 8, 2026.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Captain Wada explained that the committee was mandated to engage aggrieved party members and other citizens across the state who felt marginalised or disenfranchised. He noted that the panel had visited different parts of Kogi State, listened to concerns and created opportunities for meaningful dialogue and peaceful resolution of disagreements.
He commended Governor Ododo for establishing the committee and disclosed that several contentious issues had already been addressed through the reconciliation process.
Former Commissioner for Information, Chief Dan Okolo, also commended Governor Ododo and Yahaya Bello for their foresight and commitment to promoting peace, describing both leaders as individuals whose contributions were important to the ongoing reconciliation efforts.
Similarly, Hon. A. K. Salihu acknowledged the challenges encountered by the committee across the political landscape, noting that considerable progress had been made in bridging existing divisions. He further appreciated Bello's commitment to inclusive governance and a united Kogi State.
Responding, Yahaya Bello expressed appreciation to Captain Idris Wada for accepting the responsibility of leading the reconciliation process, describing his decision as an act of statesmanship, wisdom and dedication to the peace and stability of Kogi State.
Bello expressed optimism that the reconciliation efforts would usher in a new chapter of political unity across the three senatorial districts, stressing that the collective interest of the state must remain above individual and political differences.
He stated that a time would come when all sons and daughters of Kogi State, irrespective of political, ethnic or religious affiliations, would come together under one roof to celebrate their common identity and work towards a shared political future.
According to him, when former governors, former deputy governors and other critical stakeholders unite, and when the Ebira, Okun and Igala communities find common ground, alongside Christians and Muslims, Kogi State would be better positioned to deliver impressive electoral support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the forthcoming elections.
The former governor further observed that the committee's mission was already in line with his longstanding vision of an integrated, peaceful and politically united Kogi State. He therefore encouraged the committee to conclude its assignment promptly and ensure that its recommendations were adopted and implemented without unnecessary delay.
He emphasised that lasting peace and political progress could only be achieved through mutual understanding, forgiveness, inclusion and the willingness of stakeholders to put the collective interest of the state first.
The high-powered delegation included former Deputy Governors, Arc. Yomi Awoniyi and Chief Edward Onoja; former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Matthew Kolawole; former APC National Women Leader, Hajiya Salamatu Baiwa Umar-Eluma; and other distinguished members of the committee.
The 17-member APC Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee was inaugurated by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on September 8, 2026, with the responsibility of addressing grievances, reconciling aggrieved party members and strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The committee is expected to formally submit its final report and recommendations to Governor Ododo at a later date.
The meeting further underscored the importance of dialogue, political maturity and collective responsibility in building a stronger, more united APC in Kogi State.