The political landscape of Kogi Central senatorial district is heating up as the 2027 general elections draw closer, with former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, and the incumbent Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, reigniting their fierce rivalry for the coveted Senate seat.
This fresh contest pits Bello, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, against Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart currently representing the district. Both political heavyweights are setting the stage for what promises to be an intense campaign, largely centered on their respective public service records.
Conflicting Outlooks on Victory
Speaking on TVC’s Politics Sunday, Yahaya Bello exuded confidence in his electoral prospects. When pressed by an interviewer about overcoming his popular opponent, Bello stated that “The result will speak for itself.” He further predicted a “massive vote” and a “decisive victory” not just for himself, but for the entire APC in the forthcoming election.
Conversely, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has challenged the electorate to look beyond mere campaign rhetoric. She urged voters to critically assess aspirants based on their proven achievements, integrity, and demonstrated commitment to public service during their time in office. “Most of those contesting have held elective positions before. So, the electorate will have to judge us based on what we have been able to achieve when we had the opportunity to serve,” she told The PUNCH.
Stewardship and Allegations to Take Center Stage
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is seeking a second term, remains undeterred by Bello’s senatorial bid. She asserted that the ultimate decision rests with the voters of Kogi Central. She highlighted numerous interventions as evidence of her stewardship, including:
- Road construction
- Potable water projects
- Construction of school blocks and provision of scholarships
- Digital learning tools
- Development of healthcare facilities
- Establishment of markets for women
- Installation of solar-powered streetlights
The Senator emphasized that her tenure has been focused on addressing the critical needs of her constituents. For the 2027-2031 period, her ambition is to consolidate on existing developmental gains and expand prosperity, peace, and infrastructural development across the district.
The emerging contest is underpinned by a history of strained relations between the two politicians, characterized by past allegations of political violence, defamation, and legal battles. Notably, in October 2022, Bello publicly accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of involvement in the Ajaokuta massacre and the Kuje prison break, incidents that occurred earlier that year.
Records Under Scrutiny
As the 2027 elections approach, the campaign is expected to intensively scrutinize both candidates’ public office records. Yahaya Bello’s eight-year administration as governor, which concluded in January 2024, will be a significant talking point regarding his suitability for a senatorial role. Similarly, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legislative contributions and constituency interventions will face close examination by the electorate.
Voters in Kogi Central are poised to weigh the claims and promises of both Bello and Akpoti-Uduaghan against their past performances, legislative contributions, and concrete plans for advancing the development needs of the district.