In a remarkable display of defiance and solidarity, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was met with a jubilant reception from her supporters upon her return to Kogi State on Tuesday. This enthusiastic gathering occurred despite an official ban on public rallies and processions imposed by the state government.
Supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central convened early in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, to greet the embattled People's Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker. The atmosphere was festive, with music and celebrations filling the air as the crowd awaited her arrival. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan made a dramatic entrance, descending from a white helicopter, which elicited cheers and applause from the assembled supporters.
Addressing the crowd, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan downplayed the government's restrictions, emphasizing that her visit was to celebrate Sallah with her constituents, rather than a political rally. She remarked, "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."
This event comes in the wake of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan's six-month suspension from the Senate on March 6, 2025, following allegations of gross misconduct and violations of Senate rules. Her suspension was linked to accusations of sexual harassment she leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a claim that sparked controversy within the legislative chambers. The Senate's disciplinary committee recommended her suspension, citing breaches of conduct.
Despite her suspension, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has remained active and connected with her constituents. In December 2023, she commissioned six constituency offices across Kogi Central's five local government areas, aiming to bring governance closer to the grassroots and facilitate better communication between her office and the people she represents.
The senator's defiance of the rally ban and the overwhelming support from her constituents underscore the complex political dynamics in Kogi State. While some stakeholders in Kogi Central have initiated a recall process against her, citing alleged poor performance and failure to address key issues, her supporters view her actions as a stand against political intimidation and a fight for justice.
As the situation unfolds, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan's resilience and the unwavering support from her constituents highlight the ongoing tensions and the quest for effective representation in Kogi Central.
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