Senator Natasha Files PDP Form to Challenge Yahaya Bello in 2027 Kogi Central Race

Senator Natasha Files PDP Form to Challenge Yahaya Bello in 2027 Kogi Central Race

Senator Natasha H. Akpoti-Uduaghan has officially taken a major step toward her 2027 re-election bid by collecting her Expression of Interest and Nomination Form from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Kogi Central Senatorial District. This move comes just 48 hours after former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello announced his own candidacy by picking up the All Progressives Congress (APC) form for the same seat. The development marks a significant escalation in the political race for the senatorial position, with both prominent figures now formally signaling their intent to contest.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has represented Kogi Central in the Senate since 2019, has consistently maintained her determination to seek re-election. She has publicly stated that she will not step aside for Bello, despite the political weight he carries in the state. Her declaration underscores a growing rivalry between the two candidates, each vying for the support of voters in a region known for its intense political dynamics.

In a heartfelt post shared on her Facebook page on Monday, the senator expressed deep gratitude to her husband, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, for his unwavering support. She emphasized that his decision to purchase her nomination form was more than a financial gesture—it was a profound act of belief in her mission and her commitment to serving the people of Kogi Central. “If you had said no, I would not have taken this step towards the 2027 Kogi Central Senatorial election,” she wrote, highlighting the personal and emotional stakes involved.

She continued, “But you did not. Instead, you looked into my heart, understood the depth of my purpose in consideration of our people’s calling, and chose to stand firmly beside me.” The senator described her husband’s action as a testament to his confidence in her leadership and her vision for the senatorial district. This personal endorsement adds a layer of emotional resonance to her campaign, reinforcing her image as a determined and principled politician.

The 2027 Kogi Central Senatorial election is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests in Nigeria, given the high-profile candidates and the strategic importance of the region. Both Akpoti-Uduaghan and Bello have strong political networks and significant influence within their respective parties. As the race heats up, voters in Kogi Central will be closely evaluating the platforms, records, and promises of each candidate.

With the formal submission of nomination forms now underway, the political landscape in Kogi State is shifting rapidly. The coming months will see intensified campaign activities, grassroots mobilization, and strategic alliances as both candidates seek to consolidate support. The outcome of this race could have broader implications for party dynamics and governance in the state.