The governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has refuted claims that he escaped an assassination attempt along Abuja-Lokoja expressway on Sunday, October 22.

Recall that the Kogi State commissioner for information, Kingsley Fanwo, had issued a statement alleging that Governor Bello was attacked thrice by “strange elements in military uniforms” on his way to an official assignment in Abuja.

But, reacting to his aide’s claim, Governor Bello described the claims as false and should be disregarded.

Governor Bello clarified that the incident was a minor disagreement between his personal security team and military personnel assigned to protect the road, emphasizing that there was no attempt whatsoever on his life.

He added that while there was a minor fracas between men of the Nigerian Police Force attached to his convoy and those of a military unit manning the highways, it was in the course of both units performing their lawful security duties.

The Governor who commended the security agencies for their joint contributions to the improved security of lives and property enjoyed by the citizens of Kogi State, however, called on the high command of the agencies involved to investigate overzealousness or unprofessional conduct by any of their men involved in the incident and apply the necessary sanctions.

The Governor called on citizens of Kogi State to ignore any attempt by political profiteers to use the incident to unsettle the polity as the state’s 2023 governorship elections slated for November 11 draw nearer.

He assured the state of both his safety and the adequacy of security arrangements to ensure that the elections are peaceful, free and fair.