Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has brushed aside suggestions that former Governor Yahaya Bello’s decision to vie for her seat in 2027 poses any danger to her political career.
Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that she felt no pressure whatsoever regarding Bello’s declaration, adding that she actually welcomed the prospect of a contest.
Speaking through her Special Adviser on Media, Mike Idoko, in an interview, the lawmaker expressed confidence that Bello’s ambition would not rattle her.
She said, “We don’t see it as a threat. In fact, we are happy that he wants to contest. We are waiting for them.”
The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is presently held by Akpoti-Uduaghan, who secured election in 2023 following an extended legal tussle.
A legal practitioner and former gubernatorial hopeful, Akpoti-Uduaghan carved her name in history books as the first female senator to represent Kogi Central.
Bello had previously disclosed his plans to run for the Kogi Central Senatorial position in the 2027 general polls.
The ex-governor made his intentions public during a courtesy call to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he engaged traditional rulers, religious leaders and other key stakeholders from the senatorial zone.
A video of the visit, including his declaration, was shared on Bello’s verified Facebook page on Monday.
“I accept to run for the Senate in 2027,” Bello was heard saying while addressing the gathering.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State graced the occasion alongside other politicians and community chieftains.
The governor reportedly urged his predecessor to heed appeals from party stalwarts and constituents who had been pressing him to represent the district at the National Assembly.
The entreaty was said to have been made before the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and other prominent personalities from the zone.