Kogi Government Accuses Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Inciting Violence by Violating Ban on Political Gatherings
The Kogi State government has criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for organizing a political rally in her senatorial district despite an official ban, alleging that her actions were a deliberate attempt to instigate unrest.
Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo, in a statement on Tuesday, condemned the lawmaker’s decision to proceed with the event, which took place in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area.
“She deliberately violated the state government’s ban on political gatherings, which was put in place to prevent security breaches and maintain peace,” Fanwo said.
“Instead of respecting the law, she chose to incite chaos, disregarding the safety and stability of the state.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan had returned to her constituency on a Sallah visit and addressed a large crowd of supporters, despite the existing restriction on political gatherings.
Prior to the event, she had publicly warned that she and her supporters could be targeted for attacks, holding Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Ahmed Ododo, and former Governor Yahaya Bello responsible for any harm.
She also alleged that Akpabio had enlisted Bello to orchestrate her recall and assassination.
In response, Fanwo dismissed the senator’s claims, calling her a “serial manipulator” who deliberately violated the state’s directive.
“This is yet another desperate and calculated attempt by an incurable liar and serial manipulator to mislead the public, incite unrest, and present herself as a victim after deliberately violating the ban on political gatherings imposed by the state government to maintain law and order,” he stated.
The commissioner further accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of attempting to destabilize Kogi Central Senatorial District and insisted that security agencies should monitor her activities closely.
“The security of every citizen in Kogi State, including Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, remains a priority. However, the government will not tolerate anyone deliberately provoking crises and then crying wolf when confronted with the consequences of their actions,” Fanwo added.
He urged security agencies to take note of the senator’s remarks and actions, emphasizing that they posed a serious threat to the peace and stability of the state.
“She should be held accountable for her blatant attempts to incite violence and cause unnecessary tension,” the statement concluded.
