Ogona Anita
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has announced his plan to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. This move is expected to set up a political contest with the current senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Bello made his intention known during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland. During the visit, he met with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other key stakeholders from the senatorial district to discuss his political plans.
A video from the visit was later shared on Bello’s verified Facebook page on Monday. The video showed the former governor responding to calls from supporters who urged him to run for the Senate.
“I accept to run for the Senate in 2027,” Bello said while addressing those present at the gathering.
The event was attended by the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, along with other political leaders and community representatives from different parts of the district.
Governor Ododo appealed to Bello to listen to party leaders and residents who want him to represent Kogi Central at the National Assembly. This appeal was said to have been made in the presence of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and other respected figures from the area.
Bello served as the governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024. He is still regarded as a strong and influential member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. Many observers see his declaration as an effort to remain politically relevant in the district after leaving office.
In a related development, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Amoka Eneji, reportedly congratulated Bello on his decision to contest the senatorial seat.
Eneji was quoted as saying that Bello had played a major role in promoting unity and development among the Ebira people. He added that Bello’s leadership would continue to be remembered in the history of Ebiraland.
The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is currently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was elected in 2023. She is a lawyer and a former governorship aspirant, and she made history as the first woman to represent the district in the Senate.
