Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has expressed confidence that he will defeat the incumbent senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in the 2027 senatorial election.
Bello made the declaration during an interview on TVC’s Politics Sunday programme, where he discussed his ambition to return to the National Assembly and his chances in the forthcoming election.
When asked whether he could defeat Akpoti-Uduaghan, whom the interviewer described as a popular political opponent, the former governor said the election result would determine his standing with voters.
“The result will speak for itself,” Bello said.
Asked whether he remained popular enough to retain his nickname, the White Lion, Bello responded, “Let the day come and go.”
He was subsequently asked what Nigerians should expect on election day, prompting him to declare, “Massive vote. Decisive victory.”
Bello later clarified that he was referring to victory for himself and the All Progressives Congress, APC, under which he intends to contest the senatorial seat.
Bello governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024 and is seeking to represent Kogi Central in the Senate after completing his two terms as governor.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents the district in the Senate, belongs to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Her anticipated contest with Bello is expected to attract attention because of their political rivalry and the importance of the senatorial seat in Kogi State politics.
However, Bello’s declaration represents his personal confidence in the outcome, rather than an established election result. The final outcome will depend on voters and the conduct of the 2027 election.
The contest is expected to form part of the wider political struggle among parties seeking to strengthen their positions ahead of the general elections.
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