By Olaitan Ibrahim
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan received a rousing welcome from supporters in Kogi State on Tuesday, despite a government ban on rallies and processions.
Supporters from Kogi Central’s five local government areas gathered early in Ihima, Okehi LGA, to welcome the embattled PDP lawmaker.
Amid music and celebration, she arrived dramatically in a white helicopter, sparking cheers.
Addressing the crowd, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the government’s restrictions, insisting she was merely celebrating Sallah with her constituents.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said, “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 added, “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.”
Her homecoming followed a curfew imposed by the Okehi LGA chairman and warnings from the police.
She had earlier accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello of being behind any security threats.
The senator, recently suspended by the Senate amid a sexual harassment controversy involving Akpabio, insists she is facing political persecution.
A recall process against her is also underway.