The Nigeria Police Force has called for the cancellation of a planned rally by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in the central senatorial district of the state. The rally, which was intended to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, has become a point of contention between the state government, security agencies, and the lawmaker.
The call to cancel the event came from the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya, on Tuesday. The statement highlighted growing security concerns that have prompted the police to intervene in the rally plans.
According to the police, intelligence reports indicated potential security threats that could arise during the rally, especially with the possibility of hoodlums hijacking the event to cause disturbances. The police emphasized that Kogi State had been experiencing a period of relative peace, and any action that could jeopardize this stability should be avoided.
“The call for cancellation becomes necessary, noting that intelligence reveals that some hoodlums plan to hijack the process and cause disturbance of peace in the State. The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the State is currently enjoying,” the statement read.
This development comes shortly after the Kogi State government issued a ban on all forms of rallies and public gatherings within the state, following security concerns. The ban, which was announced on Monday, has further complicated the situation, as the government and the police seek to prevent any potential unrest in the region.
The police also made it clear that they would not hesitate to take action against anyone attempting to defy the ban. “In view of the security threat received on the planned rally, the Kogi State Police Command is therefore advising the organisers to cancel the event so as to avoid any breakdown of law and order in the State. The Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of law on anyone who causes disturbance of peace and order in the State,” the statement warned.
However, despite the police’s request and the state government’s official ban, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has maintained her stance that the rally will go ahead as planned. In a statement issued by her media team, Akpoti-Uduaghan reassured her supporters that she would proceed with her “homecoming” visit, which was meant to celebrate the end of Ramadan with her constituents.
“I am not backing out of my visit. My purpose is simple: to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with the people of Kogi Central, whom I represent in the National Assembly. This is not a political rally, but a homecoming to engage with my people, share in their joy during this sacred season, and show my appreciation for their support,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.
The senator further urged her supporters to disregard rumors and speculations regarding the cancellation of the event. She reassured them that all necessary arrangements had been made for the celebration, emphasizing that it was a peaceful event and should not be misinterpreted as a political gathering.
“My visit is about fostering unity, peace, and solidarity. It is about bringing people together, irrespective of political differences, to celebrate our shared values as Nigerians and Kogites,” Akpoti-Uduaghan added.
The controversy surrounding the rally highlights a deeper issue in Kogi State, where political tensions have been escalating, particularly with the upcoming general elections. The clash between the security agencies, the state government, and the senator over the planned event underscores the volatile political climate in the state.
The Kogi State government, led by Governor Yahaya Bello, has faced criticism in the past for its handling of political events and rallies, especially those that involve opposition figures. Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the opposition party, has been vocal in her criticism of the state government’s policies, making her planned visit even more contentious.
Some residents of Kogi State have expressed concerns over the potential for violence during the rally, especially given the tense political atmosphere. While many support Akpoti-Uduaghan’s decision to visit and celebrate with her constituents, others are wary of the security risks associated with large gatherings in the current environment.
“I understand why the police are concerned. There has been a lot of tension in the state, and we don’t want any problems. But it’s also important for politicians to connect with their people, especially during festive periods. However, I believe the authorities should ensure that security measures are in place to avoid any unnecessary incidents,” said a Kogi resident who preferred to remain anonymous.
On the other hand, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters argue that her visit is a peaceful gesture aimed at strengthening community ties. They stress that the senator has always been committed to the welfare of her constituents and is merely fulfilling her responsibility to stay connected with the people who elected her.
“This is not about politics; it’s about Eid and the people she represents. She has been in touch with us throughout the year, and her visit is just another way to show that she cares,” one of her supporters remarked.
The situation in Kogi State continues to be tense, with many closely watching how the authorities will handle the ongoing dispute. While the police and state government are focused on maintaining peace and order, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resolve to proceed with her visit demonstrates her determination to remain engaged with her constituents, even in the face of adversity.
As the Sallah period draws near, all eyes will be on the Kogi State government and the police to see if they will take further action or allow the senator’s visit to go ahead. The outcome of this confrontation will have significant implications for the political landscape in Kogi State, especially as the country heads toward the next general election.
