Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to defy the Kogi State government’s ban on public gatherings and proceed with her planned visit to Kogi Central for the Sallah celebrations. This comes just hours after Governor Usman Ododo imposed sweeping restrictions on rallies and convoy movements, a move widely seen as a desperate attempt to stifle opposition voices.
Dismissing rumors that she had canceled her visit, Akpoti-Uduaghan reassured her supporters that she remains steadfast in her commitment to engaging with her constituents, despite what she described as government intimidation tactics.
“We are pleased to confirm that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sallah visit to Kogi Central will proceed as planned,” her media team announced early Tuesday. “Despite the false reports circulating online, there has been no official statement from our office regarding any cancellation.”
The senator urged her supporters to disregard fearmongering and come out in large numbers to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her. “Her dedication to the people of Kogi Central is unwavering, and she looks forward to celebrating with them. We assure the public that all necessary arrangements have been made for a smooth and joyous event,” the statement added.
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Governor Ododo’s administration, in a move on Monday, imposed a sudden ban on public gatherings, citing security concerns. The government also restricted security convoys and suspended fishing activities, linking the decision to recent violent clashes that resulted in two deaths.
Some sources confirmed that the ban was a strategic ploy to block Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return.
Despite the crackdown, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters remain resolute, insisting that no amount of intimidation will stop them from welcoming their senator home. With the political tension escalating, all eyes are now on Kogi Central as the senator prepares to make her highly anticipated return.
