Yahaya Bello to Contest Kogi Central Senate Seat Against Senator Natasha in 2027
Yahaya Bello to Contest Kogi Central Senate Seat Against Senator Natasha in 2027
Former Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Yahaya Bello has formally declared his intention to run for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, setting up a likely high-profile contest with the incumbent Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The announcement was made on December 30, 2025, during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where Bello met with traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders from the senatorial district. A video of the event in which Bello publicly accepted calls to contest the seat was shared on his verified social media channels.
Addressing the gathering, Bello said “I accept to run for the Senate in 2027,” signalling his readiness to seek election to the National Assembly to represent Kogi Central. His declaration comes amid strong backing from political leaders and constituents who have called on him to return to electoral politics after completing his two terms as governor from 2016 to 2024.
The event was attended by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, along with influential party figures and community leaders, many of whom lauded Bello’s leadership record and urged him to translate his experience into service at the federal legislative level.
The Kogi Central Senatorial District is currently represented by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was elected to the Senate in the 2023 general elections and made history as the first woman to hold the seat. She won on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform, defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate after the tribunal upheld her election.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has been vocal about her determination to defend her mandate and has previously warned that she is not intimidated by political rivals eyeing her seat. During a recent public appearance, she reiterated her preparedness for the 2027 contest, even in a potential matchup with Bello.
The reported political dynamics between Bello and Akpoti-Uduaghan have been tense, with past conflicts and public exchanges highlighting a complex relationship between the two politicians. Their disputes have included allegations, court actions and political manoeuvres that have occasionally spilled into national headlines.
Analysts say Bello’s decision to enter the senatorial race could significantly alter the political landscape in Kogi Central and intensify competition between the ruling APC and opposition forces in the district.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gain momentum, both camps Bello’s APC supporters and Akpoti-Uduaghan’s PDP backers are expected to begin early mobilisation and strategic positioning. The race for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat is shaping up to be one of the most watched contests in the run-up to the next national polls.
