In politics, leadership is often tested in the storm—not in the calm, and as the All Progressives Congress (APC), looks to chart a clearer, stronger path into the future, the question before us is not just “who is next,” but “who is right?”

In Yahaya Adoza Bello, many see controversy. But those who look deeper see capacity, resilience, and political instinct that few can deny. At a time when the party needs someone who understands strategy, youth engagement, and internal discipline, the answer may not come from the obvious places—but from tested battlegrounds.

1. Leadership Is Not About Perfection—It’s About Direction

Yahaya Bello, like many who have dared to lead boldly, has faced opposition and allegations. But let us be honest: in Nigeria, the path of decisive leadership is rarely smooth. The same system that resists reform often throws up distractions when change begins to hurt entrenched interests.

We must ask: what exactly do we need in a national chairman? A perfect saint—or a firm hand who can navigate pressure, rebuild internal structure, and energize our base? Bello has shown, through two terms as governor, that he can absorb pressure and still deliver results.

2. He Rebuilt a State Many Gave Up On

Before Yahaya Bello became governor, Kogi State was politically volatile and economically shaky. But under his administration, security infrastructure improved, civil service reforms were initiated, and youth and women inclusion hit unprecedented levels. The statistics may not be perfect, but the direction was clear: forward.

And that’s exactly what the APC needs at this moment—someone who understands how to organize chaos into order.

3. He’s Not Just Popular—He’s Organically Connected

Yahaya Bello didn’t rise by political inheritance. He built his political strength from the ground up. His connection with Nigeria’s young people, civil servants, grassroots politicians, and even opposition sympathizers shows a leader who is not just known—but trusted in certain key constituencies.

That organic political capital cannot be bought. And in a democratic system where numbers matter, APC needs someone who already has a functional relationship with the future electorate.

4. The EFCC Distraction: Let the Law Take Its Course—But Don’t Let Politics Lose Its Course

It’s important to acknowledge the current EFCC investigation. But we must remember: allegation is not conviction, and political witch-hunts often come disguised as justice. Many great Nigerian leaders—across parties—have faced similar storms and came out even stronger.

APC must not be quick to sacrifice potential leadership on the altar of public perception, especially when the due process of law has not run its course.

Yahaya Bello deserves his day in court—just as APC deserves its day in victory. We must not lose one in pursuit of the other.

5. A Chairman Who Can Win Elections, Not Just Conduct Meetings

The next chairman of APC must be able to speak the language of the streets, manage the elite, negotiate with regions, and understand the media battlefield. Yahaya Bello has shown capacity in all of these areas—especially when it comes to strategy and political mobilization.

CONCLUSION:

The APC doesn’t need a placeholder. It needs a player—someone who knows the terrain, has weathered storms, and still commands loyalty among the youth and stakeholders. Yahaya Bello may not be the most “comfortable” choice—but he might just be the correct one.

History remembers those who dared to see beyond controversy—and recognized capacity where others saw chaos.

The question is: will APC choose comfort or courage?

Credit: Hon. Ayo Mayegun