Embattled former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has quietly married a fourth wife, even as he remains under intense scrutiny over allegations of money laundering involving a staggering N80 billion.
The discreet wedding ceremony took place over the weekend in Kubwa, Abuja, far from the public eye and devoid of the usual political fanfare. The bride, 23-year-old Hiqma, was welcomed into the Bello household in a private gathering attended only by close family members and a handful of trusted associates.
Confirmation of the union came from Bello’s third wife, Hafiza, who took to Instagram on Sunday to celebrate the newest addition to their polygamous family. “Alhamdulillah, our family just got a little bigger and more loving! A warm welcome to our new family member, Mrs. Hiqma Yahaya Bello! May Allah bless our union and fill our home with love, peace, and Barakah. Amin!” she posted.
The 50-year-old former governor, who ruled Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is already married to Amina Oyiza, Rashidat, and Hafiza. His first wife, Amina, is a lawyer and philanthropist known for her humanitarian work through the Hayat Foundation, which provides support to vulnerable groups across the state.
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While the latest addition to his household has generated whispers on social media, it comes at a time when Bello’s political and public image is under siege. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed charges against him over the alleged embezzlement and laundering of over N80 billion during his tenure as governor.
The former governor’s decision to hold a low-key wedding is being viewed by critics as a strategic move to avoid public backlash, especially as calls grow louder for him to appear in court and answer to the weighty corruption charges. The EFCC has intensified efforts to bring him to justice, describing the case as one of the most high-profile financial crime investigations in recent Nigerian history.
