Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has refuted claims that he has withdrawn his support for the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
Sunday Tribune reported that Governor Bello, the National Youth Coordinator for the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council, withdrew his support for Tinubu out of concern that the former Lagos state governor would support his opponent, James Faleke, in the December election for governor of Kogi State.
Governor Bello, however, referred to the publishing as “unfortunate” and “false news.” He spoke on Channels’ Sunday Politics program.
He asked law enforcement agencies, media regulatory entities, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate and prosecute the fake news propagators.
“Today, I awoke to find that exact hoax story in circulation. And since, according to your introduction, there is no smoke without fire, I’m sure the intention here is to start a fire in the air. And you are aware that it cannot be maintained.
“There is no fire, not to mention smoke, in relation to the false information they spread.
It is quite unfortunate. In addition, I urge all Nigerian law enforcement authorities and regulatory entities that oversee journalists and media professionals to live up to their responsibilities.
“The existing electoral legislation authorizes even INEC to investigate such matters and prosecute the liars; those who have spread false information regarding this election,” he stated.
Governor Bello reaffirmed his steadfast support for the Tinubu/Shettima campaign for president.
“Let me further reassure millions of Nigerian youths and Nigerians, as well as our followers and supporters within the country and around the world, that I remained an ardent supporter, mobilizer, campaigner, and driver of votes for our leader and incoming president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the flag bearer of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, and my brother, His Excellency, Sen. Kashim Shettima. In attendance are the president and vice president.
“Of course, every Nigerian is aware that I am a significant factor in this election. Due to my demographic makeup, I represent this country and even the entire world. So, they can create fake news, but it is the responsibility of all law enforcement authorities to take swift action against these individuals.”
Tribune was given a 24-hour ultimatum to retract the publishing.
“I’m anticipating that Tribune’s management and media organization were highly regarded. Personally, I have a lot of respect for Tribune, and I don’t understand why they allowed themselves to get dragged into this mess.
“I anticipate that they will retract that specific publication. And issue a public apology and distribute it widely within 24 hours. Otherwise, I believe my attorneys are competent to carry out the necessary actions,” Governor Bello stated.
