Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi Central, has issued a strong warning to former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello ahead of the 2027 elections.
The senator spoke during an appearance on the Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye.
Reports have suggested that Bello is considering a run for the senatorial seat currently held by Akpoti-Uduaghan.
However, the senator dismissed any notion that she is intimidated by the former governor, citing her victory over candidates supported by Bello in the 2023 elections.
She affirmed her readiness to face him, saying, “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,” she added.
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Akpoti-Uduaghan recalled her 2023 electoral success, noting that she won across all five local government areas in her district while choosing not to contest a heavily rigged poll in one locality.
She warned, “If we meet on the ballot in 2027, it won’t be a contest — it will be a reckoning. I am his nightmare.”
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The senator also addressed speculation about her political trajectory and party allegiance.
Despite overtures from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and individuals linked to the presidency, she 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 noted that any decision to contest future elections would be made after consultations with her family, constituents, and party.
She, however, left the door open to other options if the PDP fails to resolve internal disputes.
“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 stated.
Earlier this year, in April, the senator alleged that any violence during her planned visit to her constituents should be blamed on Bello, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo.
Later that month, Bello reportedly petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over statements he claimed were defamatory and made against him by Akpoti-Uduaghan.
