Top 10 Richest Politicians In Kogi State

Kogi State, strategically located in the North-Central region of Nigeria, has played a pivotal role in the country’s political and economic evolution. Known as the "Confluence State" due to the meeting point of the Niger and Benue Rivers, Kogi is not only blessed with natural resources but also with influential individuals who have dominated politics, business, and governance at state and national levels.

Among these are a handful of highly successful politicians who have managed to accumulate considerable wealth through a blend of political clout, business ventures, and strategic appointments. This article delves into the top 10 richest politicians in Kogi State as of 2025, detailing their net worth, career highlights, and the sources behind their impressive fortunes.

1. Dino Melaye – Estimated Net Worth: $100 Million

Dino Melaye stands as the most flamboyant and wealthiest politician in Kogi State. Known for his outspoken persona and luxury lifestyle, Melaye served as Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District. His career in politics began with the House of Representatives before transitioning to the Senate.

Melaye's wealth stems from a blend of political earnings, foreign investments, and property portfolios in Nigeria and abroad. He’s also known for collecting exotic cars and has dabbled in public speaking and book publishing.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Foreign business investments

• Real estate in Abuja, Dubai, and London

• Political salaries and allowances

2. Yahaya Bello – Estimated Net Worth: $56 Million

Yahaya Bello made history by becoming the youngest Governor in Nigeria when he assumed office in 2016. Serving two terms until 2024, Bello's tenure brought both acclaim and controversy. Under his administration, several infrastructural projects were initiated, and he was an influential voice in Northern politics.

Before politics, Bello was a successful entrepreneur with investments in logistics, real estate, and construction. His firm, FairPlus Group, was reputed to be among Nigeria's fast-growing enterprises.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Construction contracts

• Property development

• Political remuneration

3. Shuaibu Abubakar Audu – Estimated Net Worth: $30 Million

The son of the late Prince Abubakar Audu (a former Kogi Governor), Shuaibu Abubakar Audu is currently the Minister of Steel Development. Educated in finance and business management, he worked in the banking sector both locally and internationally before venturing into politics.

His transition into the political arena has allowed him to combine administrative responsibilities with business acumen, contributing significantly to his financial stature.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Investment banking

• Government positions

• Family wealth and estates

4. Jibrin Isah (Echocho) – Estimated Net Worth: $25 Million

Popularly known as Echocho, Jibrin Isah is the current Senator representing Kogi East. With a background in economics and banking, he previously served as an executive director at Afribank and has held several high-level financial positions.

His conservative lifestyle contrasts with his growing wealth, much of which is reinvested into agriculture and finance-based ventures.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Finance and banking

• Political appointments

• Agricultural investments

5. David Idris Zacharias – Estimated Net Worth: $20 Million

David Zacharias is a young, dynamic politician currently serving in the House of Representatives. He represents the Idah/Ibaji/Igalamela/Ofu Federal Constituency. Known for his grassroots appeal, Zacharias has built a strong support base through philanthropic initiatives and youth empowerment programs.

Outside of politics, he is a thriving real estate developer, owning properties in Abuja and Lokoja.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Real estate development

• Politics and federal allocations

• Philanthropic NGOs

6. Abubakar Sadiku Ohere – Estimated Net Worth: $15 Million

An engineer turned politician, Ohere has held key public offices in Kogi State, including Commissioner for Works and Housing and later Senator. Known for his technical expertise, he was instrumental in various infrastructural developments in the state.

His engineering consultancy and government roles have significantly contributed to his net worth.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Civil engineering contracts

• Government commissions

• Political earnings

7. Smart Adeyemi – Estimated Net Worth: $10 Million

Before venturing into politics, Smart Adeyemi was a prominent journalist and served as the National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ). He later became a two-time Senator representing Kogi West.

Adeyemi is well-respected for his communication skills and policy advocacy. He has media consultancy interests and also benefits from political patronage.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Journalism and media

• Consultancy

• Senate allowances

8. Isaac Alfa – Estimated Net Worth: $8 Million

Air Marshal Isaac Alfa (retired) is one of the most respected military officers from Kogi State. He served as the Chief of Air Staff and later as Senator for Kogi East. Alfa’s transition from military service to politics was marked by his commitment to security and defense reforms.

His income is sourced from military pensions, aviation consultancy, and political engagements.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Military pensions

• Consultancy in defense

• Senate benefits

9. Ibrahim Idris – Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million

Alhaji Ibrahim Idris was Governor of Kogi State for two terms (2003–2012). A businessman before his political ascension, Idris made his mark in the construction and hospitality industries.

Though semi-retired, he still maintains control over several businesses and wields considerable political influence within the PDP in Kogi.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Construction firms

• Hotels and hospitality

• Past political earnings

10. Idris Wada – Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million

Captain Idris Wada, a trained commercial pilot, succeeded Ibrahim Idris as Governor from 2012 to 2016. Before his governorship, Wada was the managing director of Executive Aviation Services, a private aviation company.

He remains active in aviation business and occasionally consults for both public and private sector entities.

Key Sources of Wealth:

• Aviation business

• Government salaries

• Consultancy

Summary Table: Top 10 Richest Politicians in Kogi State (2025)

Final Thoughts

Kogi State's political elite showcase how governance, business, and influence intersect in Nigeria. These politicians have used their positions to create wealth—some through legitimate enterprises and others through less transparent means. While their net worths may spark debates, their roles in shaping Kogi’s future are undeniable.

As the 2027 elections loom, more financially empowered politicians will likely rise, but the legacies and economic imprints of these top 10 remain significant in the state’s evolving story.