Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Defies Recall Threats

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Defies Recall Threats, Holds Homecoming Rally Amid Political Tensions in Kogi

LOKOJA — Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has defied security restrictions and recall threats to stage a dramatic homecoming in her constituency. Arriving by helicopter on April 1, 2025, she was welcomed by a massive crowd of supporters in Okehi Local Government Area, despite a government ban on rallies and a curfew imposed by local authorities. The event has reignited political tensions in Kogi State, with accusations flying between Akpoti-Uduaghan and her political rivals.

Details of the Homecoming

1. Defiance of Security Ban:
   • The Kogi State Government and the police had banned all public gatherings and rallies, citing security concerns.
   • The Chairman of Okehi Local Government imposed a curfew ahead of her visit, but Akpoti-Uduaghan proceeded with her rally, describing it as a peaceful Sallah celebration.
2. Massive Turnout:
   • Thousands of supporters from Kogi Central’s five local government areas thronged the streets to welcome her, waving placards and chanting slogans in solidarity.
   • Videos from the event showed jubilant crowds defying the restrictions to celebrate with their senator.
3. Social Media Warning:
   • Before the rally, Akpoti-Uduaghan posted on Facebook, warning that if violence occurred, Nigerians should hold Governor Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio responsible.
   • The post was later deleted but drew sharp criticism from the state government.

Political Context

1. Recall Process:
   • A recall petition against Akpoti-Uduaghan has been submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), reportedly signed by over half of the registered voters in Kogi Central. INEC is currently verifying the signatures, with a referendum potentially scheduled within 90 days if the petition meets legal requirements.
2. Allegations Against Rivals:
   • Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Akpabio and former Governor Bello of orchestrating her recall using fake constituents. She alleged that this was part of a broader campaign to silence her political influence.
3. Suspension from Senate:
   • The senator is currently serving a six-month suspension from the Senate for alleged misconduct following a disagreement with Senate President Akpabio. She has also accused him of sexual harassment, further escalating tensions.

Reactions

1. Kogi State Government:
   • The state government condemned her actions as lawless and accused her of inciting unrest in Kogi Central. Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo described her rally as a deliberate violation of security directives aimed at maintaining peace.
   • The government also dismissed her allegations as baseless attempts to stir controversy and cover up her disregard for the law.
2. Supporters’ Solidarity:
   • Despite the recall efforts, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s massive homecoming demonstrated strong grassroots support. Critics of the recall process argue that it is politically motivated and does not reflect the will of the people.
3. Public Debate:
   • The recall process has sparked debates about democracy and representation in Nigeria, with many questioning whether it is being used as a tool to suppress opposition voices.

Conclusion

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s defiant homecoming highlights deep political divisions in Kogi State. While her supporters view her as a champion of grassroots advocacy, her critics accuse her of lawlessness and incitement. As INEC verifies signatures for her potential recall referendum, the unfolding drama underscores the volatile nature of politics in Kogi State.