Supporters of suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, have taken to the streets ahead of her homecoming rally despite a ban on public gatherings imposed by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo.
On Monday, Kogi Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, reinforced the government’s directive, warning that the planned rally violates the ban on political gatherings. He urged Akpoti-Uduaghan to cancel the Sallah rally scheduled in the Kogi Central Senatorial District.
However, recent images circulating online from Tuesday, April 1, show enthusiastic supporters holding placards in solidarity with the suspended lawmaker.
Some of the inscriptions read: “Welcome home, worthy daughter of Ebiraland. The people of Okene are solidly behind you.”, “The people of Adavi are solidly behind you.”
The show of support comes amid rising political tension in Kogi State, as loyalists continue to rally around Akpoti-Uduaghan despite the official ban.
The Senator expressed appreciation to the people for the rousing reception, noting that it has emboldened her in her struggle for justice.
“Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I’m an Ebira woman; this is my land. I’m the daughter of the late Jimoh Abdul Akpoti. I know my roots; I’m not a bastard, and I’m not afraid of anybody,” the PDP senator 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,” the lawmaker told her supporters and constituents.
“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.”