Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was met with a grand reception by supporters in Kogi State on Tuesday, despite a government-imposed ban on rallies and processions.
Crowds from the five local government areas of Kogi Central gathered early in Ihima, Okehi LGA, to welcome the embattled PDP lawmaker.
Amidst music and celebration, she made a dramatic entrance in a white helicopter, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. Addressing her supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the government’s restrictions, stating she was merely in Kogi to celebrate Sallah with her constituents.
"Yesterday, we heard on the news that rallies and gatherings would not be allowed, roads would be blocked, and convoys entering the state would be stopped. I knew we were the targets. But this is not a political season, nor a campaign period," she stated.
She further clarified, "We are not holding a rally. As the Senator representing Kogi Central, I am here to celebrate Sallah with my people, and there is nothing wrong with that. I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria, and we have the right to be free, to gather, and to celebrate."
Her visit came despite a curfew imposed by the Okehi LGA chairman and warnings from security agencies.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello of being behind the security threats against her. The senator, who was recently suspended from the Senate amid a sexual harassment controversy involving Akpabio, claims she is facing political persecution. Meanwhile, a recall process against her is ongoing
