Natasha Akpoti

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan received a grand welcome from supporters in Ihima, Kogi State, on Tuesday, despite a state government ban on rallies and processions.

From as early as 8 a.m., supporters from the five local government areas of Kogi Central gathered in Okehi LGA to celebrate her return. The event featured local musicians entertaining the crowd as they awaited her arrival. The senator later made a dramatic entrance in a white helicopter, sparking cheers from the excited crowd.

Addressing her supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the ban as politically motivated, stating, “Yesterday, we heard that rallies and gatherings would not be allowed and that roads would be blocked. I knew we were the targets. But this is not campaign season. I am simply visiting my people to celebrate Sallah.”

She emphasised that she was not violating any laws, asserting her right to freedom of movement and peaceful assembly. “This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free and to celebrate,” she declared.

Her defiance of the ban highlights ongoing political tensions in Kogi State as her supporters continue to rally behind her despite government restrictions.