Despite a government ban on rallies and public gatherings, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan received a rousing welcome from thousands of supporters in Kogi State today.
Her dramatic homecoming unfolded in defiance of a state-imposed curfew and heightened security warnings.
A Grand Return Amid Political Tensions
Supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central gathered early in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, to welcome the embattled Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senator. Many had traveled long distances to see her, waving banners and singing songs of solidarity.
Arriving in a striking white helicopter, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s entrance electrified the crowd.
The atmosphere quickly turned celebratory, with music, dancing, and chants of support echoing through the streets.
The senator’s return was met with both excitement and controversy, as the Kogi State government had earlier placed a ban on political rallies, citing security concerns.
Police authorities had warned against defying the order, emphasizing that intelligence reports suggested a risk of violence if the gathering proceeded.
Natasha’s Response to the Ban
Addressing the jubilant crowd, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the government’s restrictions, insisting that she was only in the state to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents.
“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,” she said.
“I knew that we were the targets. But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time.”
She continued, “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—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 defiance of the government’s order has further fueled tensions between her and the Kogi State authorities, particularly the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership.
Government’s Security Justification and Political Undercurrents
The Kogi State government, in an earlier statement, justified the ban on public gatherings, citing intelligence reports that suggested plans by “hoodlums” to hijack political rallies and cause unrest.
The Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, warned that any attempt to disobey the directive would be met with the full force of the law.
Political analysts, however, suggest that the ban was targeted at Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has remained a vocal opposition figure in the state.
Many believe the government’s actions were an attempt to suppress her growing influence, especially following her recent suspension from the Senate over allegations of misconduct.
Political Persecution and the Senate Suspension Saga
Akpoti-Uduaghan has been embroiled in controversy, with her recent suspension from the Senate over a sexual harassment allegation involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She has, however, described the suspension as politically motivated, claiming that powerful figures within the ruling party are attempting to silence her.
In addition, a recall process against her is reportedly underway, further intensifying the political battle in Kogi Central.
Many of her supporters view these developments as an orchestrated attempt to remove her from office before the next election cycle.
Public Reaction and Future Implications
Her defiance has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters hail her courage and determination, seeing her as a symbol of resistance against oppression.
Many argue that she is a victim of political witch-hunting and applaud her for standing her ground despite the risks.
On the other hand, critics argue that her actions were reckless and could have led to a breakdown of law and order.
Some believe that by openly defying a security directive, she set a dangerous precedent that could escalate political tensions in the state.
Observers say this episode could further reshape Kogi State’s political landscape, particularly as the 2027 elections draw closer. With Akpoti-Uduaghan’s continued defiance, the political rivalry between her camp and the APC-led government is expected to deepen.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s dramatic return to Kogi State, despite a government-imposed ban, has once again placed her at the center of political controversy.
Her defiance not only challenged the state’s authority but also reignited discussions on political oppression, security enforcement, and the power dynamics within Kogi politics.
As events continue to unfold, all eyes will be on how both the government and Akpoti-Uduaghan navigate this political storm in the coming weeks.
Will the authorities take further action against her? Or will her show of defiance strengthen her position as a key opposition figure? Time will tell
