Natasha Akpoti: I’m Yahaya Bello’s worst nightmare ahead of 2027 senatorial contest

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi central, has issued a warning to Yahaya Bello, former governor of Kogi state, ahead of the 2027 elections.

Akpoti-Uduaghan spoke on the Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye.

There have been reports that the former governor is considering a bid for the senatorial seat currently held by Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The senator dismissed claims that she is intimidated by Bello, recalling her victory over candidates backed by the former governor in the 2023 elections.

She said she is not afraid of facing Bello in the 2027 senatorial contest.

“Let me make this very clear: I am not afraid of Yahaya Bello,” she said.

“He may have been governor, wielded enormous power, and attempted to influence every corner of the political process, but I overcame him.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan said she won the 2023 election across all five local government areas in her district.

She claimed declining to contest a heavily rigged poll in one locality.

“If we meet on the ballot in 2027, it won’t be a contest — it will be a reckoning. I am his nightmare,” she said.

The senator also addressed speculation concerning her political future and party loyalty.

She said she has remained committed to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite approaches from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and individuals linked to the presidency.

“I have been approached many times, by the presidency, by my colleagues, even by old political allies. Yet, I value my space, my peace, and above all, my people,” she said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan said any decision to contest future elections would be based on consultations with her family, constituents, and party.

She, however, said she could consider other options if the PDP fails to resolve its internal crisis.

“If PDP hasn’t settled its internal crisis before the elections, I would need just a month to choose a platform of my choice — and my people will move with me,” she added.

In April, Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that any violence during her planned visit to her constituents should be blamed on Bello, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Usman Ododo, governor of the state.

Later that month, Bello petitioned Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police, over alleged defamatory statements made against him by the senator.