Senator Natasha Declares Second Term Bid, Set To Battle Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello In Kogi Central

Meanwhile, former governor, Yahaya Bello has also declared his intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat, signalling a potentially fierce political showdown.

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has declared her intention to seek re-election for a second term, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest with former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, in the 2027 general elections.

Akpoti-Uduaghan made the declaration during the Kogi Central Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Stakeholders’ Meeting, where party leaders, supporters, and key stakeholders gathered to deliberate on the future of the party in the district.

Her announcement follows months of consultations and sustained appeals from constituents across the five local government areas of Kogi Central, as well as encouragement from her family.

“After due consultations and encouragement from my husband, I am here to say I have accepted your calls to re-contest for my second term as your senator,” she said.

Meanwhile, former governor, Yahaya Bello has also declared his intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat, signalling a potentially fierce political showdown.

Bello made his declaration during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he met with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders from across the district.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s decision comes amid a wave of endorsements from party faithful and community leaders, which has intensified over the past four months, indicating strong grassroots support for her candidacy.

In her remarks, the senator emphasised the need for unity within the PDP, urging stakeholders to prioritise reconciliation and inclusiveness ahead of the elections.

“This is the time to bring everyone back home. We must reconcile with those who may have had one issue or another, for the betterment of our party and the success of our elections ahead,” she said.

Speaking at the meeting, the PDP Kogi Central Zonal Chairman, Hon. Anthony Akuvada, commended her leadership, describing her as a transformational figure whose impact has been widely felt across the district.

Akuvada also praised her commitment to inclusive governance, noting that her accessibility and consistent engagement with constituents have strengthened the bond between leadership and the people.