Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, and the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, have renewed their political contest ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both expressing confidence in their respective positions.
Bello, who governed the state from 2016 to 2024, is seeking to return to elective office through the Senate on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, while Akpoti-Uduaghan of the Peoples Democratic Party is seeking another term.
Speaking during an interview on TVC’s Politics Sunday, Bello expressed confidence in his chances against the incumbent senator, saying the outcome of the election would determine the strength of his political support.
“The result will speak for itself,” he said when asked whether he could defeat Akpoti-Uduaghan. He further predicted a “massive vote” and “decisive victory” for himself and the APC.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, however, urged voters to assess candidates based on their records in public office rather than campaign promises, arguing that their past performance should guide the electorate’s decision.
In an interview with The PUNCH on Monday, the senator said her achievements included road projects, access to potable water, school buildings, scholarships, digital learning resources, healthcare facilities, markets for women and solar-powered streetlights.
She said her ambition for the 2027–2031 period was to build on the projects and interventions already initiated while expanding development across Kogi Central.
The renewed contest comes amid a history of strained relations between the two politicians, including past allegations and legal disputes. With both positioning themselves for the Senate seat, their records in public office and plans for the district are expected to feature prominently in the campaigns.
