The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections.

Bello’s name appeared in INEC’s final list of candidates released ahead of the elections, putting to rest speculation surrounding his candidacy for the senatorial seat.

The former governor, aged 51, is listed alongside candidates of other political parties contesting for the Kogi Central Senate seat.

Also listed is the incumbent senator representing the district, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is seeking re-election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Bello’s inclusion in the final list follows his victory at the APC senatorial primary, where he emerged as the party’s candidate for the Kogi Central district.

The former governor’s candidacy had generated significant political interest, particularly amid questions raised over his eligibility to contest the election.

With INEC’s final list now published, Bello is officially set to fly the APC flag in the 2027 contest for the Kogi Central Senatorial District.

The election is expected to attract considerable attention as Bello, a former two-term governor of Kogi State, seeks to make a return to the national political scene through the Senate.