Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has 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 community stakeholders from the senatorial district.
A video capturing the visit and his declaration was shared on Bello’s verified Facebook page on Monday.
“I accept to run for the Senate in 2027,” the former governor said while addressing those in attendance.
Kogi State governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, was also present at the event alongside other political leaders and community figures.
According to Peoples Daily, Ododo appealed to his predecessor to heed calls from party leaders and constituents urging him to represent the district at the National Assembly. The appeal was reportedly made in the presence of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and other influential figures from the area.
Bello, who served as Kogi State governor from 2016 to 2024, remains a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress in the state.
Meanwhile, Kogi Watch reported that the chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Amoka Eneji, congratulated Bello on his declaration, describing him as a leader who contributed significantly to the unity and development of the Ebira people.
Eneji added that Bello’s leadership would continue to hold an important place in the history of Ebiraland.
The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is currently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was elected in 2023. Akpoti-Uduaghan, a lawyer and former governorship aspirant, made history as the first woman to represent the district in the Senate.