Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has warned former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello that she is not intimidated by reports of his possible bid to challenge her for the senatorial seat in 2027.
Speaking on the Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed rumours that she fears the former governor, declaring that she had already defeated his political machine in the 2023 elections.
“Let me make this very clear: I am not afraid of Yahaya Bello,” she said.
“He may have been governor, wielded enormous power, and attempted to influence every corner of the political process, but I overcame him,” she added.
The senator noted that she won the 2023 election across all five local government areas in her district despite what she described as efforts to manipulate the process.
“If we meet on the ballot in 2027, it won’t be a contest — it will be a reckoning. I am his nightmare,” Akpoti-Uduaghan declared.
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She also addressed speculation about her political future and loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insisting that she has resisted pressure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and individuals linked to the presidency.
“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.
The senator added that any decision about her next political move would be guided by consultations with her family, constituents, and party.
“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 warned.
Earlier this year, Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Bello and other Kogi leaders of plotting violence against her during a constituency visit, a claim Bello denied in a petition to the Inspector-General of Police, alleging defamation.