The Kogi State Government has strongly condemned the allegations made by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing them as “reckless, malicious, and utterly false.”
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, urged security agencies to closely monitor Akpoti-Uduaghan’s “reckless utterances and inflammatory actions,” emphasizing that she should be held accountable for any attempt to incite violence.
Government Dismisses Allegations Against Ododo, Bello, and Akpabio
The government dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio should be held responsible if anything happens to her. Fanwo described her accusations as a calculated attempt to mislead the public, incite unrest, and portray herself as a victim.
According to Fanwo, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions directly violate the state government’s ban on political gatherings, which was imposed to maintain law and order. He further accused the senator of attempting to use her visit to “stir trouble and violence in Kogi Central Senatorial District.”
“We will not allow any part of the state to go up in flames nor permit the killing of innocent souls by the actions of the suspended Senator,” the statement read.
Social Media Accusations and Security Threats
Fanwo also alleged that, despite deleting her post accusing the government of threatening her life, screenshots had been taken before its removal. He maintained that security reports had previously indicated plans by “certain elements” to cause unrest in Kogi Central.
“Governor Ododo has no interest in the political theatrics of the suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Her baseless allegations are nothing but a feeble attempt to stir unnecessary controversy and cover up her blatant disregard for the law,” Fanwo stated.
He further accused the senator of a pattern of lawlessness, claiming that she manipulates public perception for sympathy.
“The people of Kogi State and Nigerians at large should see through her deceptive ploys. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not a victim; she is an instigator of disorder who thrives on spreading falsehoods,” he added.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Fanwo reiterated that the Kogi State Government would not succumb to blackmail or intimidation, warning that Akpoti-Uduaghan would be held responsible if her actions led to any violence.
“The security of every citizen in Kogi State, including that of 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 his or her actions,” he said.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Defiant Visit to Kogi
The government’s statement came in response to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s visit to Kogi State on Tuesday, where she received a rousing welcome from supporters despite the state’s ban on political gatherings.
Supporters from the five local government areas in Kogi Central gathered in Ihima, Okehi LGA, cheering as she arrived dramatically in a white helicopter amid music and celebrations.
Addressing the crowd, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the government’s restrictions, insisting that she was merely celebrating Sallah with her constituents.
“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 said.
She further 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.”
Political Persecution Allegations
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s visit followed a curfew imposed by the Okehi LGA chairman and warnings from security agencies. She has maintained that she is facing political persecution, especially after her suspension from the Senate amid allegations of sexual harassment involving Senate President Akpabio.
