Godfatherism! Ex-Governor Orders Kogi Lawmaker-Elect To Sit On The Floor
A viral video has sparked controversy after former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, was seen instructing newly elected State House of Assembly member, Hassan Shado, and his supporters to sit on the floor during a meeting in Abuja.
The meeting, held on Monday at Bello’s residence, brought together members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to formally present Shado, winner of the August 16 Dekina-Okura II State Constituency by-election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Shado victorious with 55,073 votes, defeating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Godwin Meliga, who polled 1,038 votes.
During the gathering, Bello issued a stern directive to Shado, instructing him to fully align with the policies and agenda of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
“In everything that comes to the Assembly, everything, even if you don’t understand it, support the governor,” Bello said while drawing the lawmaker-elect’s ear to emphasize his message.
He further advised Shado to work closely with the Speaker and fellow Assembly members to ensure seamless support for the Ododo administration. Bello also reminded the legislator-elect that his electoral triumph was a result of collective party effort, urging him to remain inclusive, consult widely, and remain loyal to the grassroots and party faithful who facilitated his victory.
The video has since ignited reactions online, with critics questioning the optics of the floor-sitting episode and supporters describing it as a symbolic act of humility and discipline.
