Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has emerged victorious in the All Progressives Congress, APC, senatorial primary election for Kogi Central Senatorial District after recording a landslide win across all five local government areas in the district.
Results released after the exercise showed that Bello secured overwhelming votes in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori-Magongo, Okehi and Okene local government areas, polling a total of 72,399 votes to cement his return to frontline electoral politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The victory further reinforces Bello’s political influence within the APC structure in Kogi State, especially in Kogi Central where he maintains a strong grassroots network built during his two-term tenure as governor.
However, while celebrations trailed Bello’s victory in Kogi Central, political tension erupted in Kogi East Senatorial District as Senator Jibrin Isah openly rejected the outcome of the APC primary election after losing his bid for a return ticket.
The senator declared that “the battle line has been drawn” between himself and Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, accusing government agents of hijacking electoral materials and frustrating voting in several wards across the district.
Jibrin alleged that no electoral officers arrived at his polling unit during the exercise, claiming similar incidents occurred in many wards where party members were unable to vote.
According to him, the alleged absence of officials and materials was a deliberate strategy aimed at suppressing his supporters and influencing the outcome of the primary election.
Despite the setback, the senator maintained that his political structure and constituency projects across Kogi East remain strong enough to mobilise support for APC candidates, including President Bola Tinubu, in the 2027 elections.
The developments have exposed growing cracks within the Kogi APC as the party navigates intense power struggles ahead of the next election cycle, with analysts warning that unresolved grievances from the primaries could deepen internal divisions in the state.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
