At the venue of the campaign rally
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Defies Kogi Rally Ban, Celebrates Sallah with Supporters
Despite a state-imposed ban on rallies and processions, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan received a warm welcome from supporters and residents in Ihima, Kogi, on Tuesday.
As early as 8 a.m., crowds from the five local government areas of Kogi Central Senatorial District gathered in Okehi LGA to greet the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker. Local musicians entertained the attendees as they awaited her arrival.
The senator soon made a grand entrance in a white helicopter, sparking cheers from the jubilant crowd. Addressing her constituents, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the state government’s restrictions, stating, *“We heard that rallies and gatherings were banned, roads blocked, and convoys restricted. I knew we were the targets. But this isn’t campaign season—it’s a festive Sallah celebration with my people. I’m breaking no law. In Nigeria, we have the right to assemble and celebrate freely.”*
Before her homecoming, she accused Kogi Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Governor Yahaya Bello of any potential security breaches during the event. Her return followed the state’s ban on public gatherings, a curfew imposed by Okehi LGA Chairman Amoka Monday, and a police warning to cancel the gathering.
Defiant, Akpoti-Uduaghan declared, *“Nobody 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, and I fear no one.”*
The senator has been in the spotlight recently, facing a Senate suspension over alleged rule violations and a sexual harassment claim against Akpabio. A recall process against her is also underway, which she attributes to political persecution.
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