Kogiflame
The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has said that former Governor Yahaya Bello’s declaration to contest her senatorial seat in 2027, poses no threat to her political career.
Speaking through her Special Adviser on Media, Mike Idoko, the lawmaker said that she welcomed Bello’s entry into the race.
“We don’t see it as a threat. In fact, we are happy that he wants to contest. We are waiting for them,” the senator said, signalling confidence ahead of the upcoming general elections.
Recalled that the former governor publicly announced his intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland. He addressed traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders from the senatorial district, stating, “I accept to run for the Senate in 2027.”
The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo was also present at the event, reportedly appealing to Bello to heed calls from party leaders and constituents urging him to represent the district at the National Assembly. The appeal was made in the presence of the Ohinoyi and other influential figures from Kogi Central.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s composed response contrasts with the heightened political tension that often follows the announcement of high-profile contenders in competitive districts.
Her remarks suggest that she intends to treat Bello’s entry as a challenge rather than a threat.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a lawyer and former governorship aspirant, made history as the first woman to represent Kogi Central in the Senate. She was elected in 2023 following a prolonged legal contest and has since positioned herself as a prominent voice in the National Assembly.
