Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has once again caught public attention, but this time not for politics or governance. A video showing the ex-governor working out in a gym has gone viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions from Nigerians.
The short clip, which surfaced online on Monday, shows Bello lifting weights and doing light cardio exercises in a private gym. Dressed in black workout gear, the former governor appeared energetic and focused as he went through his routine.
While many public figures often share moments from their personal lives, the timing of the video — and Bello’s current public image — have made it a trending topic across social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
As soon as the video hit the internet, it triggered a wave of comments from Nigerians. Some praised Bello’s fitness and composure, while others mocked the timing of the video, linking it to the corruption allegations he currently faces.
Here are some comments that surfaced under various posts:
@EmmyDeeNaija wrote: “This man no get stress. Nigeria fit dey burn, but baba dey lift iron.”
@NifemiGold said: “Instead of going to court, Yahaya Bello dey gym. What a country!”
@RealChuka\_ posted: “Fit body no mean clean hands. We’re watching.”
@QueenTonia24 offered a different view: “Let the man enjoy his life abeg. He has served, now he’s taking care of his health. Is that a crime?”
@KogiVoice2023 added: “How many ex-governors dey fit like this? At least Bello dey look after himself.”
The social media space was sharply divided between those who saw the video as a public relations move and those who believed Bello was simply minding his own business.
Yahaya Bello served as governor of Kogi State for two terms, from January 27, 2016, to January 27, 2024. He became Nigeria’s youngest governor at the time of his first term and remained a controversial figure throughout his tenure.
While some supporters hailed him for youth empowerment initiatives and road projects, critics frequently accused him of high-handedness, poor worker welfare, and financial mismanagement.
Earlier in 2025, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared him wanted over allegations of money laundering and misappropriation of state funds. Bello denied all charges, insisting he served the state with “transparency and commitment.”
The timing of the gym video, in light of ongoing legal concerns, has made many Nigerians question the motive behind its release. Some believe it is part of a broader attempt to shift the public narrative and present Bello as calm, focused, and unbothered.
Others say the public should separate personal health from political matters.
@Annal34 “It’s not unusual for public figures under pressure to show they are relaxed and confident. A gym video sends a subtle message that he is not hiding or panicking.”
However, a critic, Mr. Joshua Agada, a public affairs analyst, said the video was in poor taste.
“The same Yahaya Bello who refused to honour EFCC invitations is now showing off his fitness? Nigerians are not fools. We need answers, not dumbbells,” he stated.
In recent years, more Nigerian politicians and public figures have been seen embracing fitness. From former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo’s morning walks to pictures of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu playing football, public wellness is gradually becoming part of political branding.
While the former governor remains a free man, all eyes are still on his ongoing legal battles. The EFCC has maintained that he will be brought to justice, while Bello’s legal team has argued that the agency’s case lacks merit.
For now, the ex-governor seems unbothered or at least that’s the image the gym video portrays.
Whether it was a PR strategy or a personal moment, one thing is clear: Yahaya Bello knows how to stay in the headlines – both inside and outside the political ring.
