Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was greeted with overwhelming support on Tuesday as she arrived in the Ihima community of Kogi State, defying the state government’s ban on rallies and processions. Despite warnings from authorities and a curfew imposed in the area, supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central Senatorial District gathered as early as 8 a.m. to welcome their representative. The atmosphere was festive, with local musicians entertaining the crowd as they awaited her arrival.
The embattled senator made a grand entrance in a white helicopter, drawing applause and chants from her jubilant supporters. Addressing the crowd, she dismissed the government’s restrictions, insisting that she had broken no laws by returning home to celebrate Sallah with her people. She stated that while the government had announced a ban on rallies and gatherings, her visit was not a political rally but a homecoming.
“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. 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,” she declared.
Her return comes just hours after the Kogi State Government imposed a ban on public gatherings, citing security threats. In addition, the chairman of Okehi Local Government, Amoka Monday, declared a curfew in the area, while the police issued a warning for her to cancel the event. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan remained defiant, insisting that no one could stop her from coming home.
“Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I’m an Ebira woman; this is my land. I’m the daughter of the late Jimoh Abdul Akpoti. I know my roots; I’m not a bastard, and I’m not afraid of anybody,” she told the cheering crowd.
Before her visit, the senator had alleged that any security breach during the event should be blamed on Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has been in the spotlight recently following her suspension from the Senate for violating its rules. Her suspension coincided with allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio, and a process for her recall from the Senate is reportedly underway. She, however, claims that her political travails are the result of a witch hunt.
Despite the challenges, the senator’s triumphant return to Kogi Central underscores her deep connection with the people, as she continues to assert her right to represent them amid political tensions.
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