Massive crowd as Natasha storms Kogi despite Police Warning

A massive crowd of supporters have gathered to welcome Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the representative of Kogi Central, ahead of her anticipated homecoming visit.

The supporters who gathered at Natasha’s Ihima residence for the homecoming rally were seen holding placards expressing solidarity with the lawmaker as they awaited her arrival.

The development follows her recent statement where she declared that Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, and former Governor Yahaya Bello should be held accountable should any violence occur during her scheduled Sallah celebrations.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who emphasized her desire for a peaceful homecoming, made the declaration in a post on her verified Facebook account on Tuesday.

She wrote, “My dear people of Kogi Central, I look forward to our PEACEFUL Sallah celebrations today. However, should we be met with or infiltrated by violence, Nigerians should hold Gov Ododo, Yahaya Bello & SP Godswill Akpabio wholly responsible.”

Her team had earlier said that the visit remains on schedule despite the recent ban on rallies and public gatherings imposed by the Kogi State Government, citing security concerns.

She dismissed rumours that she had cancelled her trip, urging her supporters to disregard such claims.

Meanwhile, the police have advised her to cancel the rally, but indications suggest she will proceed as planned.

Similarly, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Hon. Amoka Eneji, has declared a curfew across the entire LGA. In a statement issued by the chairman, he stated that the decision aims to maintain peace and order, following a ban on all political rallies and unregulated public gatherings within the area.

“The curfew, which takes effect immediately, restricts movement and gatherings in certain areas. Anyone found gathering or moving around restricted areas without permission from the relevant authorities will be arrested and prosecuted,” the statement read.

Hon. Eneji emphasized that the safety and security of the community remain the top priority, warning that the administration will not tolerate any actions that could disrupt peace and stability.

He noted that the curfew is a proactive measure to prevent potential security breaches and safeguard public safety. The Okehi LGA administration is working closely with security agencies to monitor the situation and take necessary actions.

The ban on political rallies and unregulated public gatherings aligns with the state government’s commitment to maintaining law and order. The government also continues to combat misinformation and ensure that all gatherings are peaceful and lawful.

The administration urges residents to cooperate with the authorities, remain calm, and go about their lawful businesses while observing the curfew.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was recently suspended from the Senate for six months for allegedly violating legislative rules. She also faces a potential recall, allegedly backed by political figures from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The lawmaker has been at the centre of multiple controversies, including her accusation against Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment.