Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan received a grand welcome from supporters and residents of Ihima in Kogi State on Tuesday, despite the state government’s recent ban on rallies and public gatherings.
From as early as 8 a.m., crowds from the five local government areas of Kogi Central Senatorial District gathered in Okehi LGA to welcome the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senator. Local musicians entertained the enthusiastic supporters as they waited for her arrival.
The senator later arrived in a white helicopter, drawing loud cheers from the excited crowd.
“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,” Akpoti-Uduaghan told her supporters.
“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 came shortly after the Kogi State Government banned public gatherings, citing security threats. The chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Amoka Monday, imposed a curfew, and police authorities warned her to cancel the event.
Despite these restrictions, she stood firm, saying, “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 declared.
Ahead of the event, Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Governor Yahaya Bello of being responsible for any security breaches that might occur during her visit.
The senator has been at the center of controversy in recent months, including her suspension from the Senate for breaking its rules. Her suspension came amid a sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Akpabio, and a recall process against her is currently underway. However, she insists that her challenges are part of a political witch hunt.
