I’m not a law breaker. I appreciate the governor’s orders. We came by helicopter and not by road. No convoy, we are not in the streets, so we didn’t break the law. – Sen. Natasha H Akpoti-Uduaghan
In a powerful and defiant statement to her supporters, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended senator representing Kogi Central, made it clear that she is neither “a bastard” nor “afraid of anyone.” She made these declarations while addressing a jubilant crowd during her homecoming event on April 1 in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State. Her return to her hometown was not just a personal celebration but also a highly political moment, with tensions running high in the state due to government-imposed restrictions and security concerns.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s homecoming came at a time of heightened political tensions in Kogi State. Just days before her arrival, the Kogi State Government, alongside the Kogi State Police Command, had issued a ban on public gatherings in a bid to prevent potential unrest. The local government authority, led by Hon. Amoka Eneji, had even imposed a curfew in Okehi LGA to stop Natasha’s planned homecoming and Sallah celebration with her constituents.
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Despite these challenges, Natasha remained resolute and arrived in her hometown around 1:00 pm on Tuesday, April 1, aboard a helicopter. Her supporters, who had been waiting eagerly since the early morning hours, were undeterred by the curfew and other restrictions. They gathered in large numbers to welcome her back, showcasing their unwavering support for the senator.
Upon her arrival, Natasha addressed the enthusiastic crowd with a speech that was equal parts emotional and defiant. She began by expressing her joy at being home, saying, “It is good to be home.” Her words immediately resonated with the crowd, as she proceeded to deliver a powerful message that reflected her deep connection to her people and her heritage.
“I am glad I came home. And nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I am an Ebira person. Dr. Akpoti is my father. I know my home. I am not a bastard,” she said with conviction. The crowd erupted in applause as she continued, reiterating her roots and familial ties to the region.
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In her passionate speech, Natasha emphasized her identity as an Ebira woman, proudly stating, “I am an Ebira girl. This is my land. I am the daughter of the late Dr. Jimoh Akpoti. I am not a bastard, and I am not afraid of anybody.” Her words were a direct response to any attempts to delegitimize her, whether from political rivals or the authorities who had sought to prevent her homecoming. Her assertion was not just about her personal identity but a broader statement about the strength of her community and her refusal to back down in the face of adversity.
The Kogi State Government’s decision to impose a ban on public gatherings was not taken lightly by Natasha. She had been informed that rallies and gatherings would be prohibited, that roads leading into the state would be blocked, and that convoys would be turned away. However, in her usual bold manner, Natasha rejected the idea that her homecoming event was in any way illegal or against the public interest.
“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 a political season, this is not campaign time,” she explained. She framed her arrival not as a political rally but as a simple gathering to celebrate Sallah with her people.
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“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,” she added, making it clear that she believed her actions were within her rights as a Nigerian citizen.
Her stance was a bold challenge to the authorities, showing her determination to resist attempts to suppress her voice and her connection to her community. The crowd, already fired up by her arrival, rallied around her message, reinforcing their loyalty and support for their senator.
Natasha’s defiant return to Kogi Central took place against a backdrop of intense political rivalry and uncertainty. Her suspension as a senator, a consequence of a highly charged political environment in the state, had already sparked tensions. The Kogi State Government’s actions in imposing curfews and banning public gatherings were seen by many as attempts to stifle the senator’s political influence and limit her ability to mobilize her supporters.
The imposition of the curfew by Okehi LGA Chairman, Hon. Amoka Eneji, was viewed by some as a direct effort to undermine Natasha’s homecoming event. However, despite the restrictions, Natasha’s supporters were resolute, showing up in large numbers to welcome her. The curfew, meant to suppress her presence, only served to amplify the passion of her base, highlighting the deep political divide in the state.
For Natasha, her return was not just about celebrating Sallah with her constituents but also about reaffirming her position as a force to be reckoned with in Kogi State politics. Her ability to rally such a large crowd, despite the odds, sent a strong message about her resilience and the loyalty of her supporters.
Natasha’s bold homecoming event signals a pivotal moment in Kogi State’s political landscape. Her defiance in the face of government-imposed restrictions, her passionate declarations of identity and independence, and the overwhelming support she received from her constituents underscore her enduring popularity and political influence in Kogi Central.
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However, the political landscape in Kogi remains fraught with tension. Natasha’s actions will likely have consequences, and it remains to be seen how the Kogi State Government will respond. Will they seek to further suppress her influence, or will they be forced to acknowledge the strength of her political base? These questions will shape the future of Natasha’s political career and the trajectory of governance in the state.
For Natasha, one thing is certain: she is not backing down. Whether her political opponents will take a more conciliatory approach or continue to escalate tensions remains to be seen. Regardless, Natasha’s message is clear—she is unapologetically herself, unafraid, and committed to fighting for her people.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to her roots was more than a celebration of the Sallah holiday—it was a powerful declaration of political resilience. In the face of adversity and attempts to curtail her influence, she stood her ground, sending a message not just to her supporters but to the political elite in Kogi State. Her words, “I am not a bastard. I am not afraid of anyone,” resonate as a reminder of the power of political defiance and the enduring strength of identity and community. As Natasha continues to navigate the complex political landscape of Kogi, her homecoming has solidified her position as a formidable force in the state’s politics.
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