Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has reportedly not been cleared to participate in the senatorial primary of the All Progressives Congress following his alleged failure to appear before the party’s screening panel.

Party sources cited in reports claimed that Bello’s absence from the screening exercise led to his disqualification from the contest.

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According to party insiders, the APC senatorial screening committee in Kogi State concluded its exercise without clearing Yahaya Bello because he did not physically appear before the panel.

Sources alleged that participation in the screening was mandatory for aspirants seeking clearance to contest party primaries, particularly for sensitive positions such as senatorial tickets.

The development was reportedly reflected in a screening report said to have originated from the APC state secretariat.

Allegations Surrounding Criminal Charges

Bello is currently facing multiple corruption-related charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

One of the cases involves an alleged ₦80.2 billion money laundering charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite.

He is also facing a separate 16-count charge bordering on alleged fraud and breach of trust amounting to about ₦110.4 billion.

Party sources alleged that the former governor may have avoided the screening panel due to questions related to ongoing criminal investigations.

They claimed that one of the screening requirements includes disclosure of any pending criminal cases, which could have complicated his clearance process.

Some APC insiders reportedly suggested that Bello’s absence may have been strategic, aimed at avoiding scrutiny during the screening exercise.

Others claimed that law enforcement agencies, including the EFCC, were monitoring the process closely due to his ongoing legal challenges.

However, these claims remain unverified, and neither Bello nor the APC leadership has publicly confirmed the alleged disqualification at the time of reporting.

Political Implications in Kogi APC

The development has added to growing political tension within the APC in Kogi State as the party continues its screening and preparation for the 2027 general elections.

Analysts say the situation could influence internal alignments and candidate selection processes within the state chapter of the ruling party.

The senatorial primaries are expected to be highly competitive, with multiple aspirants seeking tickets across various districts.

As of the time of reporting, the APC has not issued an official public statement confirming or denying Bello’s clearance status.

Observers note that final decisions on aspirant eligibility are often subject to appeals, internal review processes, and national-level party intervention.

The situation is expected to develop further as the party moves closer to its senatorial primary elections.