Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has formally declared his intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, a move that positions him for a direct political contest with the incumbent lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, made his political ambition public during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he met with traditional rulers, party leaders and community stakeholders from across the senatorial district.
Speaking at the gathering, the former governor said he was responding to calls from supporters and political allies who believe his experience as a two-term governor would strengthen Kogi Central’s representation at the National Assembly.
The declaration, which was later shared on Bello’s verified social media platforms, has since generated wide political reactions, particularly because of the stature of the seat and the prominence of the current occupant.
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Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Bello’s successor and a key figure in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), was present at the event and was reported to have encouraged Bello to heed the appeals of party stakeholders urging him to run.
The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is currently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who won the position in the 2023 elections, becoming the first woman to represent the district in the Senate and one of the most visible political figures from the area.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has in recent times dismissed speculations about defecting to the APC, maintaining that consultations are ongoing within her party concerning her political plans ahead of 2027.
The anticipated contest is already drawing attention beyond the state, as it brings together two influential political actors with strong grassroots followership and contrasting party platforms.
Beyond politics, Bello’s declaration comes at a time when he is facing an ongoing legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as governor, a case that remains before the courts.
Despite the legal proceedings, Bello’s entry into the race signals an early start to what is expected to be a keenly contested senatorial battle, with Kogi Central shaping up as one of the major political flashpoints ahead of the 2027 elections.
