Twitter user claims Gov Yahaya Bello was awarded the best governor in security programme.
In 2017, the Inspector General of the Police Force- Kogi- recognized Governor Bello Yahaya’s efforts with respect to security- with an award. Additionally, London based- Elegance Magazine acknowledged Bello’s efforts with the Elegance Recognition Award for Africa- 2017.
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It has been a battle of words in the media space amid forthcoming gubernatorial elections. An example is this Twitter user (well-wisher) and his laudatory remarks regarding Gov. Yahaya Bello.
Additionally, as the elections approach, some fear the likelihood of a social disturbance. This is probably the notion this Twitter user has come to debunk with his tweet. He claimed that the governor was awarded the best governor in a security programme. How true is this?
Is there an award for best Governor in “security programme”?
What we first did was to check if there was truly an award for ‘best governor in security programme’. Findings led to several reports on a 2017 award presentation ceremony held in Abuja. In this ceremony, the Nigerian Police Force presented the award for ‘Most Security Conscious Governor’ to Governor Yahaya Bello.
The then Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Ibrahim Idris, said the police had recorded outstanding achievements in the area of security since Bello became governor. He added that “He (Governor Bello) was the first to donate vehicles to the Nigeria Police Force since I became the I-G”
Similarly, on Feb 9, 2017, a blog- Nigerian Bulletin– reported the same event showing a picture of the IG presenting an award to the governor.
Also, this Vanguard’s exclusive interview with the Director-General on Media and Publicity to the governor, Kingsley Olorunfemi Fanwo, proves that the governor was recognized for improving security in Kogi state. In the interview published on February 8th, 2017, Fanwo said that the governor deserves the security award.
Yet Another Award From London
Further search brought us to this publication by the Nigerian Tribune. It would seem Bello’s achievement earned international status by the Elegance Magazine. The London based newspaper outfit, in 2017, shortlisted the governor as one of the recipients of the 2017 Elegance Recognition Award for Africa.
Yahaya merited this accolade on account of battling insecurity; what’s more, he executed it within a short time in office. Ms Lady Chilel Sarr- Publisher of the aforementioned magazine- made the preceding laudatory remarks regarding Governor Bello.
A Little Dose of Scepticism Did Not Hurt Anyone
It is interesting to note the timing of this post. While laudable in every right, a healthy sense of scepticism never hurt anyone. This is especially true because of the upcoming elections tomorrow. Moreover, these accolades were a recognition of a job well done and not an annual award.
