Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has insisted that her visit to Kogi State did not violate any law, despite a government ban on rallies and public gatherings. The lawmaker, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, made this statement on Tuesday while addressing her supporters and constituents.
Akpoti-Uduaghan clarified that her visit was not a political rally but a peaceful gathering to celebrate Sallah with her people.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said, “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 permitted. I knew that we were the targets. But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time.
“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.”
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Police Ban Homecoming Rally
Before her arrival, the Kogi State Police Command had warned against holding the event, citing security concerns. The police claimed they had received intelligence reports that some hoodlums were planning to hijack the gathering and cause trouble.
In a statement, the police spokesman, William Aya, said, “The call for cancellation becomes necessary, noting that intelligence reveals that some hoodlums plan to hijack the process and cause a disturbance of peace in the State. The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the State is currently enjoying.”
Aya urged the event organizers to comply with the directive, emphasizing that the decision was meant to protect public safety and prevent any possible unrest.
Supporters Defy Ban, Welcome Natasha in Large Numbers
Despite the ban and the warnings from security agencies, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters turned out in large numbers. They chanted, sang, and held placards in solidarity as they awaited her arrival in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area.
The senator’s visit has been at the center of controversy, especially after the local government chairman imposed a curfew and security agencies restricted movement in the area.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has been facing political opposition, including a recall process and a recent suspension from the Senate, continues to insist that she is being unfairly targeted. She has accused powerful political figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello, of being behind attempts to silence her.