Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was met with a rousing reception on Tuesday as supporters and residents of the Ihima community in Kogi Central defied the state government’s ban on rallies and processions to welcome her.
As early as 8 a.m., supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central Senatorial District gathered in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, to celebrate the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker’s return. Local musicians entertained the crowd while they awaited her arrival.
Shortly after, the embattled senator landed in a white helicopter, sparking cheers from the jubilant supporters.
“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,” the lawmaker told her supporters and constituents.
“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 return comes hours after the Kogi State Government banned public gatherings and processions, citing security threats.
This was followed by the imposition of a curfew in the area by the Okehi Local Government Area chairman, Amoka Monday, and a warning from the police for her to cancel the event.
Despite the warnings, the lawmaker told the crowd of supporters that no one can 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,” the PDP senator said.
Before the homecoming, the lawmaker alleged that any security breach at the ceremony should be blamed on Kogi Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and ex-Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.
The Kogi Central senator has made headlines in recent months and was some weeks suspended by the Senate for breaking its rules.
Her suspension came amid a sexual harassment allegation against Senate Akpabio. A process for her recall is also ongoing. But the embattled lawmaker claimed that her travails are a result of a witch hunt.
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