Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan defied the Kogi State government's ban on rallies and processions and received an overwhelming welcome from her supporters on Tuesday. Despite all land routes being grounded, the embattled PDP lawmaker managed to make a dramatic entrance, sparking celebration and excitement among her constituents in Kogi Central.
Supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central gathered early in Ihima, Okehi LGA, eager to welcome the senator. The jubilant crowd was energized as Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived in a white helicopter, a move that added a dramatic flair to the occasion.
Addressing the crowd, Akpoti-Uduaghan boldly dismissed the government’s restrictions, insisting that her visit was not a political rally but rather a celebration of Sallah with her constituents.
“We heard on the news yesterday that rallies and gatherings would not be allowed, that roads would be blocked, and convoys leading into the state would be restricted. I knew we were being targeted. But then I thought, this is not the political season, this is not campaign time,” she explained.
“We are not having a rally. This is just me, the Senator representing Kogi Central, coming down to my people to celebrate this festive time – 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 emphasized.
Her arrival came despite a curfew imposed by the Okehi LGA chairman and multiple warnings from the police. Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello of being behind any security threats aimed at her.
The senator, who was recently suspended by the Senate amid a sexual harassment controversy involving Akpabio, maintains that she is a victim of political persecution. In addition to the suspension, a recall process against her is currently underway.
