Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has warned former Governor Yahaya Bello, calling herself his “worst nightmare” ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking on the Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed speculation about being intimidated by Bello, recalling her resounding victory over candidates he backed in the 2023 elections.
The first-term senator representing Kogi Central was unequivocal in her confidence, signaling that she is not intimidated by the prospect of facing the former governor in the 2027 senatorial elections.
“Let me make this very clear: I am not afraid of Yahaya Bello. 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, recounting her victory in the 2023 elections. She won decisively across all five local government areas in her district, even choosing not to contest a heavily rigged result in one area. “If we meet on the ballot in 2027, it won’t be a contest—it will be a reckoning. I am his nightmare,” she added.
The senator also addressed ongoing speculation about her political future and loyalty. Despite persistent overtures from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and actors linked to the Presidency, Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “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 stressed that her decision to contest any future election will be guided by consultation with her family, constituents, and political party. However, she did not shy away from signaling flexibility if party issues remain unresolved.
“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 said.
By asserting her connection with her constituents and highlighting her prior victories over candidates backed by powerful political figures, Akpoti-Uduaghan has positioned herself as a fearless and formidable contender in Kogi politics.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the senator’s bold statements and unwavering confidence are likely to dominate conversations, not just within her party, but across the state’s entire political landscape. For Yahaya Bello, the warning is clear: in Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not just a contender—she is the nightmare he must face.
2027 Elections: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan declares herself Yahaya Bello’s “worst nightmare”
