By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
A coalition of women from Kogi Central Senatorial District has purchased the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination and expression of interest forms, reportedly valued at ₦20 million, for former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, ahead of the 2027 general election.
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The development signals a significant escalation in the political build-up to what is shaping into a keenly anticipated contest for the Kogi Central seat currently occupied by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Sources within the district disclosed that the women’s group, drawn from various local government areas, pooled resources to secure the forms as a demonstration of confidence in Bello’s leadership and political influence. The move, according to insiders, is aimed at persuading the former governor to formally declare his candidacy under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
Although Bello has yet to make an official declaration, the purchase of the forms is widely interpreted as a strategic endorsement from a critical grassroots bloc, particularly women, who play a pivotal role in the district’s electoral arithmetic.
The latest development adds a new dimension to the emerging political rivalry in Kogi Central, where Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to seek re-election. Analysts note that a direct contest between Bello and the incumbent senator could redefine political alignments in the district, given their contrasting styles, support bases, and track records.
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Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, remains a dominant figure within the APC structure in the state. His potential entry into the senatorial race is likely to galvanise party loyalists while also intensifying competition across party lines.
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On the other hand, Akpoti-Uduaghan has built a strong political profile anchored on advocacy, legislative visibility, and grassroots mobilisation, making the prospect of a showdown between both figures one of the most closely watched contests ahead of 2027.
The Merit Newspaper reports that the political watchers say the involvement of women in procuring the nomination forms underscores a broader trend of increased female participation in shaping electoral outcomes, especially in Kogi Central.
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As the countdown to the 2027 elections gradually begins, stakeholders anticipate further declarations, alliances, and strategic moves that will ultimately define the race for one of Kogi State’s most politically significant senatorial districts.
