Onoja: Bello Rejected Me for Being ‘Too Capable

Former Kogi State Deputy Governor, Edward Onoja, has disclosed why former Governor Yahaya Bello did not pick him as his successor, revealing that Bello considered him “too qualified” for the role.

Onoja made the revelation during an interview on the Mic On podcast on Saturday, detailing the three reasons Bello gave for selecting Governor Usman Ododo instead of him.

He stated:

“He called me physically and we spoke. He said let’s send somebody else and gave reasons. Surprisingly, he said my capacity was too much. Secondly, he mentioned that my people of Kogi East do not really like me because I supported a non-Igala candidate. Finally, he said that there could be other roles he would have at the centre and he would love me to serve with him.”

Onoja, who previously served as Bello’s Chief of Staff before becoming Deputy Governor, said he harbors no regrets about his service under the former governor:

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“No regrets for serving with Yahaya Bello. He has given me opportunities to serve, learn, grow, network, and gain a national profile. Four years before 2023, he even told me to prepare to succeed him. I planned and worked, and when it was time, about 10 of us were given the opportunity, seven of whom picked up forms from the cabinet. Ultimately, his heart was with the current governor, Usman Ododo.”

Onoja recounted that he accepted Bello’s decision gracefully:

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“When he broke the news to me a day before the primaries, I told him that you are the boss, you are over me, and what you see is what I see, but I hope you are not making a mistake.”

His comments shed light on the former governor’s succession strategy and underline Onoja’s continued respect and loyalty toward Bello.