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 of the visit, including his declaration, was later shared on his verified Facebook page.
Addressing the gathering, the former governor stated that he had accepted calls to represent the district at the National Assembly.
“I accept to run for the Senate in 2027,” he said.
The current Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, attended the event alongside other political leaders.
Reports indicate that Ododo urged Bello to heed appeals from party leaders and constituents who want him to contest the seat.
The appeal was said to have been made in the presence of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and other influential figures from the area.
Bello served as governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024 and remains a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress in the state.
Reacting to the declaration, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Amoka Eneji, congratulated Bello, describing him as a leader who had contributed significantly to the unity and development of the Ebira people.
Eneji noted that Bello’s role would remain notable in the history of Ebiraland.
The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is currently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who won the election in 2023. Akpoti-Uduaghan, a lawyer and former governorship aspirant, made history as the first woman to represent the district in the Senate.
