KEY POINTS

• A leaked APC screening document reportedly lists Yahaya Bello as “not cleared” for the Kogi Central senatorial primary.
• Conflicting reports suggest he may have failed to fully participate in the screening amid ongoing EFCC corruption trials.
• The APC has yet to issue an official clarification, deepening uncertainty around his 2027 senatorial ambition.

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello is at the centre of fresh controversy after a screening document reportedly circulating within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State listed him as “NOT CLEARED” for the party’s senatorial primaries in Kogi Central.

The document, said to originate from the APC state secretariat, has deepened uncertainty around Bello’s bid to secure the party’s ticket for the 2027 Senate race.

The development comes just days after earlier reports suggested that Bello had been screened and cleared alongside other aspirants for the senatorial primaries.

While an earlier list indicated that Bello was among 17 aspirants cleared for the primaries, the new document contradicts that position by marking him as “not cleared.”

Party insiders cited conflicting explanations for the inconsistency, with some claiming that the former governor did not fully participate in the screening exercise.

According to sources, Bello’s absence from the screening panel may have influenced the outcome that led to his alleged disqualification.

Allegations Over Screening Requirements and Legal Issues

Some APC sources alleged that Bello’s reported disqualification may be linked to questions in the party’s screening form requiring aspirants to disclose any ongoing criminal investigations or prosecutions.

The former governor is currently facing multiple corruption charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), including allegations of money laundering and diversion of public funds.

One source claimed that Bello’s situation may have influenced his engagement with the screening process, though the APC has not issued any official confirmation.

The former governor is standing trial in two separate cases involving alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as governor of Kogi State.

In one case, the EFCC accused him of laundering about ₦80.2 billion through multiple accounts and acquiring luxury properties in Nigeria and abroad.

In another case, he and two co-defendants face allegations involving ₦110.4 billion in alleged fraud and criminal breach of trust.

Bello has consistently denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty in court.

The ongoing legal battles have continued to generate debate around his eligibility for elective office and his political future within the APC.

As of the time of reporting, the APC has not issued an official statement clarifying Bello’s screening status or resolving the conflicting reports.

The uncertainty has fuelled internal party tension in Kogi State, particularly as preparations intensify for the 2027 elections.

Stakeholders say the final list of cleared aspirants could significantly shape the senatorial race in Kogi Central.