The Kogi State Government has firmly rejected accusations from suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling them baseless and deceptive. Officials insist that her claims misrepresent the facts and are aimed at misleading the public. The government has also called on security agencies to keep a close watch on her activities, warning that she should be held accountable for any disturbances linked to her actions.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, refuted Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio posed a threat to her safety. Fanwo described her accusations as an attempt to gain public sympathy and stir up tension.
According to the commissioner, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent visit to Kogi Central disregarded a government directive prohibiting public gatherings, a measure put in place to maintain law and order. He argued that her visit was not merely a homecoming but an intentional act to provoke unrest.
“The government will not allow any instability in Kogi due to the reckless actions of the suspended senator,” Fanwo stated. He further revealed that although Akpoti-Uduaghan deleted a social media post where she accused the government of endangering her life, records of the post had already been archived.
Fanwo also cited intelligence reports indicating plans by certain groups to incite violence in Kogi Central, reinforcing the necessity of the government’s restrictions. “Governor Ododo has no interest in Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political theatrics. Her false accusations are simply an attempt to shift attention away from her disregard for the law,” he added.
Supporters Defy Ban to Welcome Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Despite government restrictions on political gatherings, thousands of supporters from Kogi Central gathered in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, to receive Akpoti-Uduaghan. She made a striking entrance, arriving in a white helicopter amid singing, dancing, and excitement.
While addressing her enthusiastic supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the government’s directives, emphasizing that her visit was solely to celebrate Sallah with her people. “We heard yesterday that rallies were banned, roads would be blocked, and convoys prevented from entering the state. It was clear these restrictions targeted us. But this is not a political event or an election campaign,” she stated.
She defended her visit as a normal interaction with her constituents, insisting that she had not violated any laws. “As the Senator representing Kogi Central, I have every right to visit my people and celebrate with them. There is nothing illegal about this gathering. We have the right to assemble peacefully and enjoy festivities,” she declared.
Her visit proceeded despite a curfew imposed by the Okehi LGA chairman and prior warnings from security agencies. Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier accused Senate President Akpabio and former Governor Bello of orchestrating threats against her safety, adding further strain to the political climate.
Kogi Government Stands Firm on Security Measures.
The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring peace and stability in the state. Officials have stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan will be held accountable if her actions lead to any form of violence or unrest.
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“The security of all Kogi residents, including Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, remains a priority for the government. However, we will not stand by while individuals deliberately instigate crises and later claim to be victims,” Fanwo asserted.
With security agencies closely monitoring developments, authorities have pledged to take necessary actions to uphold peace and stability in Kogi State.
