The Kogi Central Senatorial District was abuzz with excitement on Friday as former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, returned home to a massive reception by indigenes and All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters. The homecoming, which drew a huge crowd, was marked by colourful displays and chants from enthusiastic supporters. Yahaya Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, is now the APC candidate for the Kogi Central Senate seat, having won the party's May 2026 senatorial primary.
The reception was a testament to the affection and confidence the people of Kogi Central have for the former governor. Many stakeholders and residents who led constituents to welcome Bello vowed to demonstrate their gratitude for his "good works" by voting him massively in the 2027 election. They highlighted some of Bello's legacy projects during his tenure as governor, declaring that he is naturally loved by the residents of Kogi.
Former Kogi State APC Chairman and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, described the reception as a demonstration of the people's affection and confidence in Yahaya Bello. He noted that the APC structure in Kogi Central was fully prepared for the forthcoming election, stressing that the district remains a stronghold of the party.
According to Abdullahi Bello, the massive crowd witnessed during the homecoming was not just a political gathering but an indication of Bello's level of acceptance among the people. He expressed confidence that APC members and supporters across the five local government areas of Kogi Central would mobilise behind Bello at the polls.
Bello's emergence as the APC flag bearer followed a direct primary in which he was declared winner with 72,399 votes across the district. He expressed satisfaction with the outcome, saying it marked the end of using influence or advantage to win elections.
Addressing the crowd, Abdullahi Bello said he was not surprised by the turnout, citing Bello's broad political appeal across age and gender. He attributed the massive reception to Bello's achievements during his tenure as governor.
With the 2027 election approaching, the people of Kogi Central have indicated their readiness to support Yahaya Bello's senatorial bid. The former governor's homecoming has set the tone for what promises to be a keenly contested election in the district.
Key points
- Yahaya Bello's homecoming in Kogi Central was marked by a massive reception from indigenes and APC supporters.
- The former governor is seeking to become the senator for Kogi Central in the 2027 election.
- Bello's emergence as the APC candidate was secured through a direct primary, where he garnered 72,399 votes.
