In a recent development, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, has suggested that the purported alliance between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to undermine Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is encountering significant resistance. Odinkalu's observations follow a massive show of support for Akpoti-Uduaghan in Kogi State, despite governmental prohibitions on public gatherings.
On Tuesday, constituents from the five local government areas of Kogi Central convened in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, to welcome Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. This overwhelming turnout occurred despite an existing government ban on rallies and processions, highlighting the senator's enduring popularity and the public's defiance of restrictive measures.
Reacting to the event, Odinkalu took to his X handle (formerly Twitter) to commend Akpoti-Uduaghan's electoral integrity and grassroots appeal. He emphasized that her victory was achieved without electoral malpractice—a feat he implied was uncommon among certain political figures. Odinkalu's remarks underscore the challenges facing any attempts to diminish her influence or initiate a recall process.
The backdrop to this show of support includes allegations that Akpabio and Bello orchestrated efforts to recall Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate. Reports indicate that this initiative involved substantial financial inducements and strategic manipulation, aiming to forge signatures and pressure electoral bodies into compliance. However, these plans have reportedly met with resistance from the senator's constituents, who have expressed satisfaction with her representation and are unwilling to support her removal.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan's political journey has been marked by resilience and controversy. Notably, she was sworn in as the first female senator from Kogi State on November 2, 2023, following a favorable judgment from the Appeal Court. Her tenure has included initiatives to bring governance closer to her constituents, such as commissioning six constituency offices across Kogi Central to facilitate better communication and address local concerns.
Despite facing challenges, including a six-month suspension from the Senate on March 6, 2025, for alleged gross misconduct—a move widely criticized by women's rights groups and seen as a response to her accusations of sexual harassment against Akpabio—Akpoti-Uduaghan has maintained her commitment to her constituents and continues to receive substantial grassroots support.
The unfolding events suggest that any attempts to undermine Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan's position face formidable obstacles, primarily due to her strong rapport with the electorate and her reputation for integrity in public service.
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