Lokoja – The Kogi State Government has formally reported Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to security agencies, urging them to hold her responsible should any violence erupt in the state, The Bureau Newspaper gathered.
The senator, who represents Kogi Central District, defied the state government’s ban on rallies and processions by landing in Ihima Community on Tuesday in a white helicopter. She was received by a large gathering of supporters from across the five local government areas within her district.
Kogi Government Accuses Natasha of Inciting Violence
The Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, in a statement on Tuesday, described the senator’s homecoming event as a deliberate provocation aimed at causing unrest in the state.
“She deliberately violated the state government’s ban on political gatherings, which was put in place to prevent security breaches and maintain peace,” Fanwo stated.
According to him, security agencies had been placed on high alert following intelligence reports indicating a possible infiltration by troublemakers. The state government insists that its ban on rallies and public gatherings is a precautionary measure to maintain stability.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Defends Her Visit
Reacting to the allegations, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the claims that she was orchestrating violence, insisting that her visit was purely a homecoming to celebrate Sallah with her people.
“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 – Sallah with you, and there is nothing wrong with that,” she stated.
According to her, the ban on rallies and processions was a targeted attempt to suppress her activities.
“I heard that rallies and gatherings would not be allowed, that roads would be blocked, and convoys leading into the state would not be permitted. But I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free, to express our choice in gatherings and celebrations,” she added.
Heightened Security in Kogi State
As tensions rise, security operatives have been directed to monitor political activities across the state. The Kogi State Government has maintained that the ban on gatherings is necessary to avert security breaches and ensure peace.
With political rivalry intensifying, all eyes are now on security agencies as they determine the next course of action regarding the senator’s alleged defiance.
