The Kogi Central Youths Initiative has reacted to reports that former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello may be planning to contest for the Senate in 2027, describing the idea as unrealistic and disconnected from the political reality on ground.
In a statement issued by the group and signed by its leader, Momoh Ojo, the youths said Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan remains the undisputed choice of the people of Kogi Central, stressing that any contest involving Bello would only further expose the wide gap between popularity and power.
According to the group, Bello would simply trail behind Senator Natasha politically, a situation they described as being her political wife rather than a serious challenger.
Natasha Akpoti Is a Senator of the People
The youths noted that Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan did not rise through intimidation or political force but through years of consistent engagement with her people.
They explained that long before she became a senator, Natasha had already built strong relationships across communities in Kogi Central through advocacy, development initiatives, and constant interaction with ordinary citizens.
Since entering the Senate, they said she has remained visible and accessible, supporting youths and women, facilitating empowerment programmes, and speaking boldly on national issues that affect her constituents.
According to the statement, this is why she enjoys genuine love and loyalty from her people and not the kind of forced acceptance that disappears once power is gone.
Yahaya Bello and the Reality of Senate Politics
The group pointed out that Yahaya Bello’s political strength during his time as governor depended largely on executive authority and control, a style they believe does not translate well into senatorial elections.
They explained that Senate elections are won through trust, personal acceptance, and credibility, not through fear or influence from government offices.
The youths reminded the public that in the last Senate election, a candidate openly supported by Bello failed despite having access to political machinery and resources.
According to them, that loss exposed a key weakness in Bello’s political structure, which is the inability to convince the people when power is no longer involved.
What Is the Difference Between Bello and the Candidate He Supported
The Kogi Central Youths Initiative questioned what makes Bello believe he would succeed where his preferred candidate failed.
They argued that the same issues that worked against that candidate also apply to Bello, including weak grassroots connection and lack of personal warmth with the people.
In contrast, they said Senator Natasha has never needed imposition to win elections, as her victories have always been driven by genuine support from the electorate.
Politics of Connection Versus Politics of Control
The statement described the situation as a clear choice between two different political approaches.
On one side is Senator Natasha Akpoti, whose politics is built on listening, empathy, and delivery. On the other side is Yahaya Bello, whose politics is associated with control and command.
According to the youths, Kogi Central has outgrown politics based on fear and has embraced leadership that respects the people.
2027 Is Already Clear
The group concluded that if Yahaya Bello eventually joins the Senate race in 2027, the outcome would not surprise anyone. They said Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan’s popularity continues to grow across age groups and political affiliations, while Bello’s influence has weakened outside executive power.
In the words of the statement, the streets already understand what the ballot will later confirm. Senator Natasha will win and Bello will follow.
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