As 2027 approaches, political conversations in Kogi Central are centered on experience, representation, and need for change of guard. One name dominating the discussion currently is Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, former Executive Governor of Kogi State (2016 to 2024).
Supporters in Okene, Okehi, Adavi, Ajaokuta, and Ogori-Magongo LGAs are making the case for him as “the rightful candidate” for the Kogi Central Senatorial Seat. The argument is built largely on his 8-year record at Lugard House and his identity as a son of the district.
Below are some Reasons Why he is seen as the people’s choice ahead of 2027;
Executive Experience at the State Level
Yahaya Bello governed Kogi State for two terms, making him one of the few Ebira politicians to have held executive power for a full 8 years in the Fourth Republic. As we all know, experience matters a lot in the Senate.
As a former governor, Yahaya Bello understands budgeting, oversight, federal relations, and how to attract projects to his constituency because he has sat on the other side of the table. This has given him an advantage in legislative advocacy for Kogi Central.
Key Projects and Presence in Kogi Central 2016-2024
The legacy projects of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello are scattered across Kogi for all and sundry to see. They are not just on social media but tangible and functional projects executed during his tenure.
* Health: The Okene Reference Hospital was upgraded and equipped as a flagship tertiary facility to serve the Central and beyond.
* Infrastructure: Township road works in Okene and improvements on key corridors like Zariagi-Okene were prioritized to improve mobility and commerce. Several feeder roads were also rehabilitated to make mobility easier for the people and gave a facelift to the Area.
* Security: His administration invested in security architecture and logistics across the State, with Kogi Central cited as one of the areas where relative calm was recorded in later years.
* Youth Inclusion: The “New Direction” government was noted for appointing young people to cabinet and advisory roles, with several from Kogi Central. These and many more were recorded during his tenure as the Executive Governor of Kogi State.
He is from Okene LGA, and he understands its cultural and political dynamics firsthand. 8 years as governor is presented as verifiable experience compared to starting afresh in the National Assembly. Having governed recently, he retains relationships and knowledge of federal corridors that can be used to lobby for Kogi Central.
Senate seats are won by voters, party structures, and INEC processes. The 2027 race in Kogi Central will also feature other aspirants, performance, and fresh ideas.
For many in the district, however, the pitch is clear: “Take the man who has governed the state, back him for the Senate, and use that experience to push Kogi Central’s interests in Abuja”.
CHIEF RICHARD ASAJE
Founder/Nat’l Coordinator,
Like Minds Alliance Pressure Group
2nd July, 2026
