Despite a ban on rallies and public gatherings by the Kogi State Government, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday received a warm reception from her supporters and residents of Ihima in Okehi Local Government Area.
As early as 8 am, crowds from the five local government areas of Kogi Central Senatorial District, which Akpoti-Uduaghan represents, gathered in Ihima to welcome the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) senator.
Local musicians entertained the enthusiastic supporters as they awaited her arrival.
Shortly after, the senator made a dramatic entrance in a white helicopter, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
Addressing her supporters, she dismissed the ban on gatherings, saying she had done nothing wrong.
“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. But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time,” she stated.
“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. I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free, to express our choice in gatherings and celebrations.”
The senator’s visit came just hours after the Kogi State Government imposed a curfew in Okehi LGA, citing security concerns.
The chairman of the local government, Amoka Monday, reinforced the ban, while the police also advised her to cancel the event.
Despite these restrictions, Akpoti-Uduaghan remained defiant, assuring her supporters that she had every right to visit her hometown.
“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,” she declared.
Ahead of her return, the senator had alleged that any security breach during the homecoming should be blamed on Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Governor Yahaya Bello.
