Former Kogi state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has stirred intense reactions on social media following reports that he obtained the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination form to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development has placed Bello on a potential collision course with the incumbent senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, setting the stage for what many observers describe as a high profile political battle in Kogi state.
Soon after the reports surfaced, Nigerians took to social media platforms to express mixed opinions over the former governor’s decision to seek legislative office.
A Facebook user, Jesse Bajehson, questioned the move, saying, “Somebody that should be in jail by now? Let see if Kogi people will not reject this man.”
Another user identified as Don Well Well also criticised the development, asking, “With all the k-leg in financial mismanagement?”
Reacting from a different angle, Sunday Lucky welcomed the emerging contest, writing, “Let the battle for the race begin.”
Also commenting, Olori Ouebanji Omolola, expressed concern over the legal controversies surrounding the former governor, stating, “Person that have case in court, na wa for this country.”
Bello, who governed Kogi state for two terms, remains one of the most influential political figures in the state and retains a strong support base within the APC.
Political analysts believe his entry into the race could significantly reshape the political calculations in Kogi Central, especially if the contest materialises against Natasha, whose popularity has grown in recent years.
The former governor is currently facing legal proceedings instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), a matter that has continued to generate public debate.
With early campaigns beginning to take shape, attention is now turning to Kogi Central as one of the key senatorial districts to watch ahead of the 2027 elections.
On her part, Natasha has been facing long internal battle at the Senate, mostly with the Senate President Akpabio.
