Despite an official ban on political gatherings and security warnings, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan returned to Kogi Central District for a homecoming event. The event, organized by her supporters, saw an overwhelming turnout as people welcomed her with music, dance, and placards expressing solidarity.
A Warm Welcome Amidst Restrictions
Authorities in Kogi State had issued a ban on rallies and public gatherings, citing security concerns. Just hours before the scheduled homecoming, police urged organizers to cancel the event, warning of potential threats. However, Senator Natasha proceeded with her visit, stating that nothing could stop her from returning home.
Videos from the event captured joyous crowds singing and dancing as they held placards with messages like:
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“Welcome, worthy daughter of Ebira land!”
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“Okene stands behind you!”
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“Adavi supports you, Natasha!”
Senator Natasha’s Response to the Controversy
Addressing her supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her right to return home, emphasizing that she is a true daughter of the soil and remains unshaken by opposition.
“Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I am an Ebira girl, this is my land, I am not a bastard, and I fear no one,” she declared.
Facing Recall Attempts and Political Challenges
The senator is currently facing a recall process, initiated by members of her constituency who petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remove her from office. She criticized the process, alleging that INEC assisted petitioners in correcting errors in their submission.
“The first time they submitted the petition, there were no addresses or contact details. Instead of dismissing it, INEC guided them on how to correct it,” she claimed.
She also raised concerns that the sponsoring group lacks proper registration, questioning why INEC has yet to act on public outcry regarding the issue.
Speaking Out on Sexual Harassment
Akpoti-Uduaghan revisited her previous statements about experiencing sexual harassment, explaining that she spoke out despite anticipating backlash. She highlighted that many women endure similar experiences in schools and workplaces, where they are pressured by superiors in exchange for favors.
“I have spoken about the silent pain many women face. By doing so, I hope it becomes easier for others to speak up, and one day, laws will protect women, married or not,” she stated.
Senate Suspension: Unfair and Politically Motivated?
The senator also addressed her suspension from the National Assembly, calling it illegal and claiming that the signatures used to justify it were from an attendance sheet rather than a legitimate vote. She described the process as a gross injustice filled with irregularities.
Government Ban and Police Warnings
On March 31, ahead of the senator’s return, flyers promoting her homecoming went viral on social media. In response, the Kogi State Government banned all rallies, citing intelligence reports that certain groups were planning to incite violence under the guise of political gatherings.
A statement from the government read:
“Intelligence reports indicate that some individuals are planning to disrupt public peace by organizing rallies using fake security personnel.”
While the ban did not explicitly mention Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on April 1, the Kogi State Police Command formally asked organizers to cancel the homecoming rally due to security risks.
“We have intelligence that suggests hoodlums may hijack the event and cause disturbances. The command cannot allow the peace of the state to be jeopardized,” the police statement read.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s homecoming has reignited political tensions in Kogi State. While her supporters celebrate her resilience, the government’s ban on rallies and her ongoing recall process indicate that her political journey remains a contentious one.
