Akpoti-Uduaghan defies govt’s order to hold political gathering in Kogi
Taofeek Oyedokun
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central in the Senate, on Tuesday received a grand reception from her supporters and residents of Ihima, Kogi State, despite a government-imposed ban on rallies and processions in the area.
Supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central gathered in large numbers at Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, from the early hours of the day to welcome the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senator. Local musicians entertained the crowd as they awaited her arrival.
Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived in a white helicopter, drawing loud cheers from the enthusiastic crowd.
Addressing her supporters, she dismissed the notion that her visit violated any law, stating that she was merely celebrating the Sallah festivities with her constituents.
“Yesterday, we heard on the news that rallies and gatherings will not be allowed, that roads will be blocked, and convoys leading into the state will not be allowed. I knew that we were the targets. But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time,” she said.
“We are not having a rally. This is just me, the Senator representing Kogi Central, coming down to her people to celebrate this festive time – the Sallah with you, and there is nothing wrong with that. I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free, to express our choice in gatherings and celebrations.”
Her homecoming took place just hours after the Kogi State Government imposed restrictions on public gatherings, citing security concerns.
Amoka Monday, the Okehi Local Government chairman, had also declared a curfew in the area, while the police warned against holding the event.
Despite these measures, the senator reaffirmed her right to visit her people, asserting her strong ties to the community.
She also accused key political figures, including Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello, of being behind alleged threats to disrupt the event.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has been at the centre of political controversy in recent months. She was recently suspended from the Senate following a clash with the leadership and has also accused the Senate President of sexual harassment.
Also, an ongoing recall process in her senatorial district has further fueled tensions. She, however, maintains that her political struggles are the result of saying no to sexual advances from the Senate President.
See more photos from the rally below
BusinessDay NG