Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has formally declared his intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.
Bello made the announcement during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he met with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other key stakeholders from the senatorial district.
A video capturing the moment of his declaration was later shared on his verified Facebook page.
Addressing the gathering, the former governor openly confirmed his ambition, saying, “I accept to run for the Senate in 2027.”
The event was attended by the current Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, alongside prominent political figures and community leaders.
According to reports, Governor Ododo used the occasion to appeal to his predecessor to heed calls from party leaders and constituents who want him to represent the district at the National Assembly.
The appeal was made in the presence of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and other influential personalities from the area, underscoring the significance of the endorsement within the local political and traditional structure.
Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, remains an influential figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. His declaration has already begun to draw reactions from political actors across the district.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Amoka Eneji, congratulated Bello for stepping into the race. He described the former governor as a leader who has contributed significantly to the unity and development of the Ebira people, adding that Bello’s impact would remain a lasting part of Ebiraland’s history.
The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is currently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was elected in 2023. A lawyer and former governorship aspirant, Akpoti-Uduaghan made history as the first woman to represent the district in the Senate.
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