By Our Correspondent

National News – Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has officially picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form for the Kogi Central senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development positions him as the party’s consensus candidate for the district.

It comes amid growing political preparations across Nigeria for the next election cycle, where Bello is expected to face strong opposition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The move highlights a renewed push by the former governor to return to elective office after completing two terms in executive leadership in Kogi State.

Yahaya Bello, a former governor of Kogi State, formally obtained the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form on Saturday, May 2, 2026, marking a key step in the party’s internal selection process for the Kogi Central senatorial ticket.

The 2027 election race in Kogi Central is expected to be competitive as Bello emerges as the APC consensus candidate.

His move signals a renewed bid for legislative influence after completing two terms as governor.

The development sets up a potential electoral contest with the incumbent senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who currently represents the district in the National Assembly.

Bello’s entry into the race highlights ongoing political realignments within Kogi State as parties position themselves for national legislative seats.

According to party insiders, Bello’s nomination reflects internal agreement within the APC structure in Kogi Central, aimed at consolidating support ahead of the general elections.

The decision also underscores strategic efforts by the ruling party to retain the senatorial seat in a region known for closely contested elections.

The Kogi Central senatorial district comprises key local government areas with significant political weight in determining electoral outcomes.

Analysts say the contest between Bello and Akpoti-Uduaghan could become one of the most closely watched races in the 2027 polls due to its high-profile candidates and regional significance.

Bello previously served as governor of Kogi State for two consecutive terms before handing over to Governor Usman Ododo, and his return to elective politics marks a notable shift in his political trajectory.