Top 10 Richest Politicians In Kogi State

Now, if you think Kogi State is only famous for the meeting point of Rivers Niger and Benue, or for its juicy yam and Ebira music vibes, then my friend, sit down and let me blow your mind. This state has more than fertile land and rich culture—it has politicians who have silently made it to the top of Nigeria’s millionaire class without making noise like Lagos boys.

Forget what you’ve seen on the news. These guys are not necessarily trending every day on Twitter, but their bank accounts are trending non-stop—ask their bankers! Whether they are ex-governors, senators, or behind-the-scenes power players, the one thing they have in common is simple: they know how to turn politics into prosperity.

In this post, we’re counting down the top 10 richest politicians from Kogi State who have held key roles in the state and are still very much alive and kicking. Let’s gist!

1. Yahaya Adoza Bello – The White Lion of Kogi

Let’s not deceive ourselves—when you talk about Kogi politics in the last decade, Yahaya Bello’s name must enter the chat. This man stormed into Lugard House in 2016 as the youngest governor in Nigeria, and since then, he’s built an empire of influence and wealth that’s hard to ignore.

From Okene in Kogi Central, Yahaya Bello came from a business background—he was already involved in logistics, real estate, and agriculture before entering politics. As governor, he embarked on massive projects (some controversial, some applauded), but one thing’s for sure: he left office in 2024 with heavy pockets and louder political ambition.

Estimated Net Worth: $60 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Politics, Logistics, Real Estate, Agriculture
Signature Move: Always dressed to impress with a solid convoy behind him.

2. Jibrin Isah “Echocho” – The Silent Political Billionaire

If Yahaya Bello is loud and everywhere, then Echocho is the opposite—silent, strategic, and smiling all the way to the bank. Born in Ajaokuta LGA, Jibrin Isah built his wealth first in banking before stepping into politics.

He was once a board member of Afribank and ran investment portfolios like a pro before venturing into the governorship race. While he didn't win the governorship, he settled into the Senate and has remained a consistent force in the Kogi East zone.

He doesn’t do social media drama. He doesn’t show off houses or cars. But insiders will tell you he’s one of the richest politicians in the North Central region.

Estimated Net Worth: $45 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Banking, Investment, Politics
Signature Style: Quietly rich—your uncle that doesn’t shout but can buy your dream house in one transfer.

3. David Idris Zacharias – The Real Estate Prince

David Zacharias is part of the new generation of politicians who are wealthy and relatable. Representing Idah/Igalamela/Ofu/Odolu Federal Constituency in the House of Reps, he is young, sharp, and already very financially comfortable.

What makes David stand out is his background in real estate. He is the founder of Eden Multibiz Projects, which has properties and estates across Abuja and Lokoja. And let’s not forget his philanthropic streak—his foundation is constantly empowering youths and women in Kogi East.

He’s proof that you can be young, politically active, and still loaded—without waiting to become a governor.

Estimated Net Worth: $25 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Real Estate, Politics, Business
Signature Style: The “cool” politician with clean suits and a clean heart (or so we hope!).

4. Abubakar Sadiku Ohere – The Civil Engineer with Civil Accounts

Now this is one man whose rise in Kogi politics has been steady and well-engineered—literally. Ohere is a trained civil engineer who served as Commissioner for Works and later became a Senator representing Kogi Central.

He’s the type of politician who doesn’t make much noise, but every year you’ll hear his name on completed road projects, bridge inaugurations, and community outreach. His technical background gave him access to big contracts and he’s said to be one of the most trusted hands in the Bello administration.

Estimated Net Worth: $20 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Engineering Contracts, Public Service, Politics
Signature Style: Always on-site with a helmet and a smile.

5. Smart Adeyemi – The Journalist Who Talked His Way into Wealth

This one’s a classic story: from journalism to politics, and now deep into the millionaire club. Smart Adeyemi hails from Kogi West and has represented the zone multiple times in the Senate. He was once the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) before delving fully into national politics.

Known for his eloquence and passion for public affairs, Adeyemi has built wealth through his media connections, political influence, and public appointments. He may be a “Smart” man by name, but his moves in both media and politics show real intelligence.

Estimated Net Worth: $15 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Journalism, Politics, Advisory Roles
Signature Move: That senator who will always have one quotable speech on the Senate floor.

6. Edward Onoja – The Former Deputy with Future Plans

Edward Onoja is a household name in Kogi politics—mainly because of his loyalty to Yahaya Bello and his powerful role as Deputy Governor during Bello’s second term.

From Kogi East, Onoja previously worked in the banking sector and in the private oil and gas industry before joining politics. He’s known for mobilizing support and being the key strategist behind many APC wins in Kogi. Behind the scenes, Onoja has invested in hospitality, education, and media.

Estimated Net Worth: $12 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Politics, Private Sector, Strategy Consulting
Signature Style: Power behind the throne with a taste for branded kaftans.

7. Suleiman Kokori Abdul – The Financial Mind of Kogi West

Suleiman Kokori Abdul may not be a household name for Gen Z, but for the older political watchers in Kogi, he’s a major figure. Once a Commissioner for Finance in the state, and a master of budget planning, this man knows how to make figures dance.

He has since transitioned into politics and investment roles, focusing on agricultural financing and state-level economic consultancy.

Estimated Net Worth: $10 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Finance, Agricultural Investment, Public Advisory
Signature Move: Spreadsheet wizard with a love for public-private partnerships.

8. Senator Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman – The Young Diplomat

Nurudeen was one of the youngest senators Nigeria ever had, representing Kogi Central in his 30s. Though no longer in the Senate, he remains politically active and runs diplomatic and business ventures.

Educated in Europe, Nurudeen’s style is suave and international. He has also been involved in mining-related consultancy, given Kogi’s rich mineral resources.

Estimated Net Worth: $8 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Politics, Diplomacy, Mining
Signature Style: Blazer and briefcase type—he walks like he’s late for a meeting in Geneva.

9. Clarence Olafemi – The One-Time Acting Governor

Clarence Olafemi is like that respected elder in your family who’s been everything—Speaker, Acting Governor, political godfather—you name it. Though he's no longer holding major office, his years of public service and business dealings earned him solid financial clout.

He’s still respected in Kabba and beyond, often playing kingmaker behind closed doors. His quiet wealth is built from real estate, transport, and public consultancy.

Estimated Net Worth: $7 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Politics, Consultancy, Real Estate
Signature Style: Traditional agbada with a serious face and a knowing smile.

10. Friday Sani Makama – The Comeback King

Friday Makama is a grassroots politician who has represented Igalamela/Odolu in the State Assembly and is known for his fiery debates and political loyalty.

He may not be in the big league of governors or senators, but his connection to the electorate and involvement in business activities (especially transport and microfinance) put him in the list of financially stable political players.

Estimated Net Worth: $5 million
Major Sources of Wealth: Politics, Transport, Community Business
Signature Style: Local champion with eyes on national relevance.

Summary Table

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—Kogi’s political millionaires, 2025 edition. These are the movers and shakers who didn’t just win elections, they built wealth legacies. Some came from business and found politics; others used politics as a stepping stone to fortune. But all of them represent the rich political tapestry of Kogi State.

Whether you're in Lokoja, Okene, Kabba, or Anyigba—these names are known, their wealth is real, and their influence? Undeniable.

Who surprised you on this list? Who did you expect but didn’t see? Share your thoughts in the comments.