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Summary
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan bypassed government restrictions to make a triumphant return to Kogi Central, where thousands of supporters welcomed her in a grand homecoming. Despite a state-imposed ban on public gatherings, she insisted on her right to visit her people for the Sallah celebration. Her return comes amid political tensions, including her Senate suspension and an ongoing recall process, which she describes as a witch hunt. The show of support in Kogi underscores her resilience as she continues to challenge political forces working against her.
On Tuesday, March 1, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan boldly returned to her constituency in Kogi Central, bypassing a government ban on public gatherings—imposed barely 24 hours before she was to hold the homecoming rally—as she was welcomed by a massive crowd of supporters in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area.
Her arrival in a white helicopter sparked loud cheers from the thousands who had gathered as early as 8 a.m. to receive her. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, addressed her constituents defiantly, insisting that no law prevented her from visiting her people to celebrate the Sallah festival.
Senator Natasha’s homecoming happened even though the Kogi State Government, under the leadership of Usman Ododo, imposed restrictions on rallies and processions, citing security concerns barely 24 hours before Senator Natasha arrived. Okehi Local Government Chairperson Amoka Monday, followed up with a curfew, and the police issued a warning for her to cancel the event, showing that it was an intentional act to sabotage her homecoming.
Despite these measures, the senator remained resolute, declaring that no authority could prevent her from returning home. “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 allowed. I knew that we were the targets,” she told the cheering crowd.
“But then I said, this is not a 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.”
She further emphasised her right to be present in her homeland. “Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I’m an Ebira woman; this is my land. I’m the daughter of the late Jimoh Abdul Akpoti. I know my roots; I’m not a bastard, and I’m not afraid of anybody.”
Senator Natasha’s return comes amid significant political turbulence. In recent months, she has been at the centre of controversies, including a suspension from the Senate for alleged rule violations. Her suspension coincided with her accusations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a case that has further fueled tensions between her and the Senate leadership.
Additionally, an ongoing process to recall her from the Senate has intensified political pressure on the PDP lawmaker. However, she insists that her ordeal is nothing more than a politically motivated witch hunt.
Before her homecoming, she alleged that any security disturbances at the event should be blamed on Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Akpabio, and former Governor Yahaya Bello.
The massive turnout for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s homecoming demonstrated her continued support in Kogi Central despite her political struggles. Local musicians entertained the crowd while they awaited her arrival, turning the gathering into a festive celebration rather than a political rally.
As her legal and political battles continue, her return to Kogi serves as a clear message—she remains determined to maintain her presence and influence in the region, regardless of the obstacles placed in her path.
