The Kogi State Government has raised serious concerns over the actions of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, accusing her of inciting unrest by openly defying the state’s ban on political gatherings and convoy usage.
The government claims her actions are intended to sow chaos, particularly pointing to her recent statements on social media.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Kogi’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, responded: “The Kogi State Government has taken note of the reckless and entirely false allegations made by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on her verified Facebook page, where she claims that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio are responsible for any harm that might come to her.”
Fanwo characterized these allegations as part of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s ongoing efforts to mislead the public and create unnecessary unrest while disregarding the state’s regulations meant to ensure peace.
He added, “This is yet another calculated attempt by Akpoti-Uduaghan, known for her manipulative tactics, to incite violence. She is exploiting her visit to Kogi Central to create turmoil, and the government will not allow such actions to destabilize the state.”
Although Akpoti-Uduaghan deleted the post shortly after its publication, the Kogi State Government saved a screenshot of the original message and reaffirmed that her actions were consistent with security reports indicating plans for unrest in Kogi Central.
Fanwo clarified that Governor Ododo had no interest in the political strategies of the suspended senator, dismissing her accusations as an attempt to generate controversy.
“Her unfounded claims are a mere diversion to cover up her flagrant disregard for the law. Once again, she has shown a blatant disrespect for established rules,” Fanwo stated.
The statement went on to accuse Akpoti-Uduaghan of repeatedly violating the state’s ban on political gatherings, which was put in place to maintain order and security. The government expressed disappointment that she continued to defy these measures, rather than respecting them for the sake of peace.
In response to her claims of victimization, Fanwo emphasized that the Kogi State Government would not be swayed by politicians using falsehoods to manipulate public perception.
“The people of Kogi and Nigerians at large should see through these lies. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not a victim; she is the instigator of disorder,” he declared.
The government called on security agencies to monitor her actions closely and hold her accountable for any attempts to provoke violence or escalate tensions.
It reassured the public that the safety of all citizens, including Akpoti-Uduaghan, remains a priority, but warned that anyone who deliberately seeks to destabilize the peace would face consequences.
In conclusion, Fanwo reaffirmed the state’s commitment to upholding peace, security, and progress under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. “No individual, no matter their status, will be allowed to undermine the peace and stability of Kogi State,” he concluded.
