Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has announced his intention to run for the Senate, saying the move is aimed at supporting Governor Usman Ododo in advancing the interests of the Ebira people at the national level.
Bello made the declaration on Monday at the palace of Ahmed Tijani Anaje, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, in the presence of Governor Ododo and other dignitaries.
According to Bello, the call to represent the Ebira at the Senate was not a personal ambition but a duty entrusted to him by the governor to help address lingering challenges facing the community.
“Governor Ododo asked me to shoulder part of the leadership burden for our people because there are still critical issues that require attention,” Bello said.
He added that the role would involve ensuring that decisions affecting Kogi and Nigeria are respected and implemented at the national level.
Bello also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support, noting that the president singled him out among several former officeholders because he currently holds no political position. “Leadership requires continuity, and President Tinubu believes in strengthening unity within the party,” Bello said.
Speaking in Ebira, Bello explained the Senate role metaphorically, describing it as a platform where “ozi ewurehi ina” – a term referring to the 109 senators – gather to make decisions impacting the nation.
He emphasized that his candidacy is aligned with the wishes of his political supporters and the Ebira community.
“There is no question of refusing this call if it reflects the desires of those I serve,” Bello said.
The former governor’s declaration sets the stage for a high-stakes contest for the Kogi Central senatorial seat, currently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Akpoti-Uduaghan recently dismissed claims of being intimidated by Bello, affirming her readiness to face him in the 2027 elections.
The development marks a new chapter in Kogi politics as stakeholders brace for what promises to be a keenly contested senatorial race.
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