By Ayomide Otitoju
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday received a rousing reception from her supporters in Ihima, Kogi State, despite a government-imposed ban on rallies and processions.
Supporters from across Kogi Central Senatorial District thronged the Ihima community in Okehi Local Government Area (LGA) from as early as 8 a.m. to welcome the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker. The event, marked by music and festivities, saw several local musicians entertaining the crowd as they awaited her arrival.
The senator, who represents Kogi Central, made a dramatic entrance in a white helicopter, drawing cheers from her jubilant supporters. Addressing the gathering, she dismissed claims that her visit violated any laws.
“Yesterday, we heard on the news that rallies and gatherings would not be allowed, that roads would be blocked, and convoys into the state would be stopped. I knew we were the targets. But this is not campaign season,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said. “I am simply here to celebrate Sallah with my people. There is nothing illegal about that.”
Her visit came just hours after the Kogi State Government imposed restrictions on public gatherings, citing security concerns. The chairman of Okehi LGA, Amoka Monday, subsequently declared a curfew, while the police issued a warning urging her to cancel the event.
Despite the directives, the senator remained defiant. “Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home,” she declared. “I am an Ebira woman. This is my land. I know my roots, and I fear no one.”
Ahead of her homecoming, Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Governor Yahaya Bello of being behind attempts to disrupt her visit.
The senator, who has been in the spotlight in recent months, was recently suspended from the Senate over alleged rule violations. Her suspension coincided with sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Akpabio. Meanwhile, an effort to recall her from the Senate is ongoing, though she insists that her political struggles are part of a wider witch hunt.
