Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has returned to Okene, headquarters of Kogi Central Senatorial District, as he begins preparations for the 2027 senatorial election.
Bello, who governed the state between 2016 and 2024, was received by a large crowd of supporters and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during a homecoming event held in the district.
The former governor emerged as the APC candidate for Kogi Central Senatorial District after winning the party’s direct primary conducted in May 2026 with 72,399 votes.
The homecoming featured chants, celebrations and a strong turnout from residents and APC supporters across the five local government areas that make up the senatorial district.
Supporters and political stakeholders at the event highlighted projects and initiatives associated with Bello’s eight-year administration, expressing confidence in his bid to represent the district at the National Assembly.
Former Kogi State APC Chairman and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abdullahi Bello, described the reception as evidence of the former governor’s continued popularity in Ebiraland.
He said the APC remained firmly established in Kogi Central and was prepared to mobilise its members for the 2027 election.
Abdullahi Bello also attributed the large turnout to what he described as the former governor’s acceptance among residents across different age groups and sections of the community.
He recalled that parts of Kogi Central had experienced insecurity and violent conflicts in previous years, claiming that the situation improved significantly during Yahaya Bello’s administration.
Speaking at the event, Yahaya Bello expressed appreciation to the people for the reception, describing the turnout as a genuine demonstration of support.
Addressing journalists at the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, the former governor expressed confidence that APC candidates would perform strongly in the 2027 elections.
Bello said he remained confident of support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and other APC candidates, including himself in the Kogi Central senatorial race.
He maintained that the party’s achievements in infrastructure and other areas would influence voters across the district.
The former governor’s return to Kogi Central comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 National Assembly elections, with parties and candidates beginning to strengthen their structures and mobilise supporters across the state.
