Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has announced his intention to contest for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the upcoming 2027 general elections, setting the stage for a potential clash with the incumbent senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Bello made his declaration during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he met with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and various stakeholders from the senatorial district. In a video shared on his verified Facebook page, he formally accepted calls to seek the senatorial ticket, stating, “I accept to run for the Senate in 2027.”
The event was attended by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and other political figures, who expressed their support for Bello’s candidacy. Governor Ododo urged him to heed the calls from party leaders and constituents to represent Kogi Central in the National Assembly.
Having governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, Bello remains a significant figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. His declaration is viewed as a strategic move to retain influence in the region post-tenure. In a show of support, Amoka Eneji, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, congratulated Bello, noting his contributions to the unity and development of the Ebira people.
The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is currently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who made history in 2023 as the first woman to represent the district in the Senate. As the race heats up, all eyes will be on the dynamics between Bello and Akpoti-Uduaghan as they prepare for the electoral contest in 2027.
