EFCC Wanted Man Yahaya Bello Declares Interest To Rival Natasha For Kogi Central Senate Seat

Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, who was declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for alleged fraud and misappropriation of public funds has announced his intention to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat currently occupied by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in the 2027 general elections.

Bello made the declaration during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he met with traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders from the senatorial district.

A video of the visit and his declaration was shared on Bello’s verified Facebook page on Monday.

“I accept to run for the Senate in 2027,” the former governor said while addressing the gathering.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, was present at the event, alongside other political figures and community leaders.

According to Peoples Daily, Ododo appealed to his predecessor to accede to calls from party leaders and constituents urging him to represent the district at the National Assembly.

The report said the appeal was made in the presence of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and other influential figures from the area.

Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, is facing serious allegations of corruption and money laundering by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

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He is accused of diverting approximately ₦80.2 billion of Kogi State funds and using proxies to purchase high-value assets in Nigeria and abroad.

The EFCC has filed multiple charges against Bello, including a 19-count charge for money laundering, misappropriation of public funds, and fraudulent acquisition of properties. Recently, the commission slamed fresh 16-count charges against him, alleging involvement in a N110 billion fraud case.