Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, on Tuesday received a rousing welcome from her supporters and residents at the Ihima community of Kogi, despite the state government’s ban on rallies and processions.
Members of her constituent had as early as 8 am gathered at her Ihima community of Okehi Local Government Area (LGA) to welcome the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker, who was recently suspended for six months.
She joined the enthusiastic crowd as she landed in an helicopter, which threw the huge gathering into a frenzy as the teeming supporters surged forward, jubilating and enthusiastically showing their support.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Natasha declared that: “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.”
The event 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.
Senator Natasha has been in the news in the past one month over a face off with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She subsequently accused him of sexual harassment. A process for her recall is also ongoing. But the embattled lawmaker claimed that she is being victimised.
