Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly, has strongly praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for rejecting a petition to recall her from the Senate, describing the decision as a victory for justice and democracy. In a statement issued shortly after INEC’s announcement, Senator Akpoti expressed her gratitude for the electoral body’s stand against what she termed a fake and politically-motivated recall attempt, orchestrated by powerful and undemocratic forces.
The controversy began when a group of individuals and organizations allegedly backed by political figures in Kogi State attempted to initiate a recall process against the senator. These forces were believed to be working behind the scenes to discredit her and remove her from office. However, INEC dismissed the petition, stating that it did not meet the constitutional requirements for a recall. The electoral body’s decision, made on Thursday, has been hailed by many as a triumph for electoral integrity.
“God has put to shame anti-democratic forces plotting my recall from the Senate, including one of the most wanted persons by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), former governor Yahaya Bello,” Akpoti stated in her response to the INEC’s ruling.
The Senator’s comment was a clear reference to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who has been a central figure in Kogi’s political landscape. Senator Akpoti’s words seem to suggest that Bello, who is allegedly on the EFCC’s list of most-wanted individuals, was one of the masterminds behind the efforts to recall her from office. Akpoti’s statement added a layer of personal and political context to the ongoing battle between her and certain factions within the Kogi State political elite.
The petition to recall Senator Akpoti was seen by many as a politically motivated attempt to undermine her legislative career, especially given her vocal stance on issues related to corruption, governance, and the welfare of Kogi State residents. The petitioners, according to Akpoti, were backed by a network of powerful politicians who were unhappy with her work in the Senate.
Akpoti’s praise for INEC centered around the electoral body’s decision to stand firm against these pressures, which she described as an attack on the democratic process. She expressed confidence that the will of the people, who overwhelmingly elected her to represent Kogi Central, had prevailed, emphasizing that INEC’s action was a “victory for the voice of the people.”
“The voice of the people is the voice of God,” Akpoti asserted. “Nobody, be it a former governor like Yahaya Bello, or Senate President Godswill Akpabio, or their associates, can toy with the mandate freely given by the resolute people of Kogi Central without being put to shame.”
Her words were not just about political victory; they were also a declaration of her commitment to standing firm in the face of adversity. Senator Akpoti has often positioned herself as an advocate for justice and the oppressed, and in her statement, she once again portrayed herself as a champion of the people against what she termed “anti-democratic” forces.
For Senator Akpoti, the rejection of the recall petition was not just a legal or political win—it was a spiritual one. She attributed her ability to weather the storm of political attacks to her faith and the unwavering support of her constituents.
“I did not exercise any fear because I have a God that can never fail, and I have people on my side,” she said, making it clear that her faith and her people were the pillars of her resilience. This combination of personal belief and public support appears to have been crucial in helping her navigate the challenges she faced.
Senator Akpoti also made a point to thank INEC for its role in upholding the laws of the land, which she sees as a rejection of what she called “shameless agents of darkness.” She went on to express her belief that the decision would set a historic precedent, ensuring that future attempts to manipulate the political process would be thwarted by a vigilant and independent electoral body.
“I commend the umpire for shaming the shameless agents of darkness and setting the record straight according to the laws of our land,” she remarked. “To God be the glory, we have defeated them again.”
Senator Akpoti’s response also focused on her broader political vision for Nigeria, particularly for Kogi State. She made it clear that she was not only fighting for her own political survival but also for the future of Nigeria, where justice and fairness would prevail over corruption, violence, and manipulation.
“This development is another record-breaking win against those who prefer coming from the back yard, the manipulators, election riggers, the violent merchants, and their allies in Kogi Central and beyond,” Akpoti declared. Her words reflected her deep dissatisfaction with the political environment in Kogi, where she has often clashed with figures she perceives as entrenched in corruption and undemocratic practices.
The Senator’s political career has been marked by a commitment to fighting against corruption and improving governance. She has used her position in the Senate to speak out on issues affecting the people of Kogi State, particularly in relation to the state’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems.
Akpoti also issued a stern warning to her political adversaries, signaling that their time in politics was coming to an end. She spoke of a new era in Nigerian politics, one in which the people would no longer support politicians who used violence, corruption, and rigging as tools for power.
“Please bear it in mind that your days are numbered in politics because the new era has come when people will no longer reckon or identify with evil politicians whose trademarks are nothing more than violence, rigging, and corruption,” she stated.
Finally, Senator Akpoti took the opportunity to express her heartfelt appreciation to her supporters, particularly the people of Kogi Central. She thanked them for their unwavering support throughout the recall process, noting that their dedication to justice and democracy had played a significant role in ensuring her continued tenure in the Senate.
“I appreciate all Nigerians for standing firm with me in this battle, especially my people in Kogi Central,” Akpoti said. “For me, I am out to bring justice to the oppressed, freedom to the captives, and to make my modest contribution to ensure Nigeria is great again.”
