Despite a government-imposed ban on rallies and public gatherings, a massive crowd turned out in Kogi State to welcome Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The suspension of public gatherings, announced by the Kogi State Government, was reportedly based on security concerns, but many observers believe it was strategically aimed at suppressing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s homecoming event.
The Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, stated in an official release that intelligence reports suggested potential security threats tied to planned political and religious rallies. As a precaution, the government prohibited all public gatherings, including the scheduled homecoming of Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
However, videos circulating on social media reveal a massive turnout of supporters who gathered in defiance of the ban, demonstrating strong support for the embattled politician. The overwhelming crowd highlighted the deep political divisions in the state and the unwavering loyalty of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s followers.
The embattled senator has been at odds with Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Senate’s Ethics and Privileges Committee. Her six-month suspension from the Senate was reportedly linked to a confrontation with Akpabio over seating arrangements and allegations of sexual harassment. Following her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan took her case to international platforms, including the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union, and engaged with major media outlets such as BBC and VOA to voice her concerns about gender-based discrimination in politics.
The controversy surrounding her recall process further intensified when a petition was submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), initiating the legal procedures for her potential removal from office. The Kogi State Government’s decision to ban public gatherings has raised questions about whether the move was genuinely about security or an attempt to stifle political opposition.
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Meanwhile, the state government has also cited recent violent incidents in Kogi West and Kogi East as justification for the ban, pointing to communal clashes and security threats. Additionally, the government warned that any individual entering the state with a security convoy must obtain prior clearance from the appropriate security agencies.
The unfolding political drama in Kogi State underscores the high stakes involved in the ongoing power struggle. With Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters defying government directives, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the growing political tension.
