APC screening committee clears Yahaya Bello for Kogi Central Senatorial primaries

The National Screening Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to participate in the party’s senatorial primary election for the Kogi Central Senatorial District.

The clearance follows the completion of the party’s screening exercise at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, where aspirants were assessed based on constitutional requirements and internal party guidelines.

With the approval, Bello is now eligible to contest in the APC primaries, where delegates will decide the party’s candidate for the senatorial seat ahead of the general election.

Party officials described the screening process as transparent and in line with the APC constitution, noting that all cleared aspirants satisfied the necessary conditions.

“The screening exercise was conducted fairly and in accordance with party procedures,” a senior APC official said. “Those cleared are now expected to continue consultations and campaigns ahead of the primaries.”

Bello’s move into the senatorial race marks his return to frontline elective politics after completing his tenure as governor of Kogi State.

In recent months, the former governor has intensified political consultations across Kogi Central, meeting traditional rulers, religious leaders, and party stakeholders within the district.

Political observers say his entry into the race could significantly reshape the political landscape in Kogi Central, one of the state’s most competitive districts.

If he secures the APC ticket, Bello is expected to face the incumbent, Senator Natasha Akpoti.

The Kogi Central Senatorial District comprises Okene, Adavi, Okehi, Ajaokuta, and Ogori-Magongo local government areas.

Analysts also note that Bello has recently increased efforts to consolidate political alliances within the APC, hosting consultations with various political figures as part of broader reconciliation moves within the party structure in Kogi State.

With the screening phase concluded, attention is now shifting to the APC primary election, where delegates will determine the party’s flagbearer for the senatorial contest.