KOGI CENTRAL CALLS FOR STRONGER SENATE REPRESENTATION, YAHAYA BELLO IN THE SPOTLIGHT
By Faith Adikeh
Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is set to make a major return to active politics as he considers contesting for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.
According to sources close to the former governor, the aspiration is said to have followed extensive consultations and calls from political stakeholders and constituents in Kogi Central, as well as encouragement from the incumbent governor,Ahmed Usman Ododo.
FROM GOVERNOR TO SENATORIAL ASPIRANT
Yahaya Bello was 40 years old when he assumed office as Kogi State Governor in January 2016, making him the youngest governor in Nigeria at the time.
During his two-term administration, his government focused on areas including security, infrastructure development, civil service reforms, youth inclusion and increased participation of women in governance.
His tenure ended in January 2024.
Since leaving office, Bello has remained an influential figure within the All Progressives Congress, APC, and continues to play a significant role in Kogi politics.
Sources familiar with the development say his reported interest in the Senate followed consultations with political stakeholders across Kogi Central and beyond. His supporters believe his experience in state administration and his relationships within the national political space could be valuable to the senatorial district.
LEGACY: INFRASTRUCTURE AND WOMEN INCLUSION
Beyond road construction, the Bello administration embarked on several infrastructure projects across Kogi State, including healthcare facilities, model secondary schools, rural electrification projects and other initiatives aimed at improving living conditions.
His administration also placed considerable emphasis on the inclusion of women in governance.
During his tenure, women occupied various strategic positions, including commissioner, special adviser and local government chairperson positions.
The policy earned Bello the informal description of a “He-for-She Governor” among some women’s groups and supporters in the state.
WHY THE SENATE? WHY NOW?
Political observers have identified several factors that could be influencing the former governor’s reported interest in the Senate.
1. DEMAND FROM CONSTITUENTS
Some stakeholders and supporters in Kogi Central believe Bello’s experience as a former governor and his political network at the national level could help attract federal attention and development projects to the senatorial district.
2. PARTY ALIGNMENT
The reported support of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo could strengthen Bello’s position within the APC structure in Kogi State, particularly as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
3. NATIONAL INFLUENCE
After eight years at the helm of state affairs, the Senate would provide Bello with another platform to participate directly in national lawmaking, budgetary processes and policy discussions affecting Kogi State and the country at large.
REACTIONS ACROSS KOGI
Supporters of the former governor describe him as “the man Kogi Central needs in Abuja right now,” citing his experience, political network and record in governance.
Some women’s groups have also pointed to his administration’s appointment of women to strategic positions as part of the reasons they believe he deserves another opportunity to serve.
There are, however, differing opinions. Critics argue that the Senate should provide room for fresh voices and new perspectives, while others are waiting to see how the APC primary process unfolds.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on the outcome of the party’s internal processes and the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 election.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR 2027
If Bello eventually enters the Kogi Central senatorial contest, his candidacy could significantly reshape the political landscape in the district and add considerable weight to the APC’s preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, is expected to provide the official timetable and guidelines for the 2027 elections, while political parties will conduct their respective primaries in accordance with their schedules and applicable electoral regulations.
As political activities gradually intensify, attention will increasingly focus on Kogi Central and whether the former governor will indeed answer the call to return to public service through the Red Chamber.
THE OPINION
As the people wait patiently for INEC to do the needful and for the political process to unfold, many in Kogi Central are also waiting to see whether their former governor will heed the call to return to Abuja and represent them at the Red Chamber.
For his supporters, the message is simple: they want their “He-for-She” back.
May the people’s voices be heard.
May their desires be met.
And, above all, may their votes count.
