By Boluwaji Obahopo

LOKOJA—Kogi State government has refuted a rumour that Governor Yahaya Bello was dead, saying he was on a two-week break abroad, which was approved by the state House of Assembly.

The government, in a statement by the Director General, Media and Publicity, Kingsley Fanwo, said: “Our attention has been drawn to the rumour making the rounds that there are concerns over the health of Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello.

“I want to state clearly here for the avoidance of doubt that the rumour lacks any iota of truth. It is a reflection of the depth the enemies of Kogi State have gone in their desperate angst against fate.

“To put the record straight, the governor is hale and hearty, healthy and unwavering in his vigour to make Kogi State the confluence of excellence.

“I urge all Kogites of goodwill to discountenance the rumour as His Excellency will return from his two-week break, which was approved by the Kogi State House of Assembly on November 12.”

There were reports, last weekend, that the governor slumped at Abuja International Airport and was flown to Germany, where he was said to have died.