Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has publicly addressed the recent attack on her family residence in Obeiba Community, located in Okehi Local Government Area, Kogi State. The senator, who has remained silent on the incident until now, shared her perspective on the attack and called for enhanced security measures.
Speaking on Thursday, April 17, 2025, Sen. Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed that the gunmen who attacked her home did so under the false assumption that she was present in town. The attackers targeted her residence on the night of Tuesday, April 15, and were swiftly confronted by security operatives and local community members, who managed to chase them off.
“During the attack, security operatives and community members responded promptly and chased them off. No one was hurt,” she stated, emphasizing that the quick reaction of local security and residents helped prevent any casualties. She further noted that a report was immediately made to the Okehi Local Government Area (LGA) police area command.
The senator’s media team issued a statement, labeling the attack as a calculated attempt to silence her. The statement urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to immediately reinstate her security detail to ensure her safety, given the severity of the attack.
“The attack on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s family house is a clear attempt to intimidate and silence her. We condemn this brazen act of violence and intimidation,” the statement read. “Her dedication to speaking the truth and representing her constituents should not be met with such brutality.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan also took the opportunity to reiterate her commitment to her duties, despite the attack. “My work for the people of Kogi Central remains unchanged. I will continue to speak the truth and serve my people,” she said.
According to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s statement, the gunmen targeted her family home because they mistakenly believed she was in town. The attack, which took place on the night of Tuesday, April 15, was quickly met with a response from security personnel and residents of the community, who managed to scare off the assailants.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan further highlighted the importance of the swift reaction, which prevented any harm to her family members. “It is thanks to the swift actions of the security personnel and the community that no one was injured,” she added.
After the attack, a formal report was filed at the Okehi LGA Divisional Police Command. The local police, under the leadership of the Divisional Police Officer, quickly became aware of the situation. The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the incident, with State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Miller Dantawaye, providing updates on the ongoing investigation.
“The command has been fully briefed on the unfortunate and criminal incident by the Okehi LGA Divisional Police Officer,” Commissioner Dantawaye confirmed in a statement made in Lokoja on Thursday, April 17. He assured the public that the police were actively investigating the incident and would not rest until those responsible were apprehended.
While the immediate cause of the attack remains unclear, political tensions in Kogi State have led some to speculate that the attack may be linked to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s stance on certain political issues, which have earned her both admiration and opposition within the state.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has been known for her outspoken criticism of government policies, particularly those she believes do not serve the best interests of the people in Kogi Central. As a vocal advocate for accountability, good governance, and the rights of her constituents, she has attracted both supporters and detractors. Some believe that the attack may be a targeted attempt to suppress her growing influence and to intimidate her into silence.
Her recent suspension as a senator, which has stirred controversy, also adds fuel to the speculation. The senator was suspended from her duties after a disagreement with some political figures in the state, with accusations of misalignment with the ruling party.
Despite these challenges, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has remained committed to her mission of serving the people of Kogi Central. In her statement following the attack, she reaffirmed her dedication to public service, emphasizing that she would not be deterred by intimidation or violence.
“I will continue to represent the people of Kogi Central. My commitment to speaking the truth and fighting for justice remains unshaken,” she declared.
Following the attack, the Kogi Police Command has launched an investigation into the matter. The police have yet to make any arrests, and the identity of the assailants remains unknown. However, Commissioner Dantawaye assured the public that law enforcement agencies were working diligently to uncover the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
“We will deal with those criminal elements who carried out this attack,” he stated, highlighting the police’s resolve to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
The ongoing investigation has garnered significant attention, with many members of the public calling for swift justice in the case. Local leaders and civil society organizations have condemned the attack, urging law enforcement agencies to prioritize the investigation and ensure that the attackers are apprehended and prosecuted.
In response to the attack, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s media team issued a call to action, urging the Inspector-General of Police to take immediate steps to reinstate her security detail. The senator’s personal safety is now a growing concern, especially considering the brazen nature of the attack and the fact that no arrests have been made.
“We call on the Inspector-General of Police to immediately reinstate her security details for her safety, considering this heinous attack,” the statement from her media team read.
Public concern over the senator’s security has been mounting, with many citizens expressing their support for her. Many believe that the attack was not only a threat to her but also a direct challenge to the democratic process and the rights of the people of Kogi Central to have their voices represented without fear of retribution.
The attack on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s family has added to the already tense political climate in Kogi State. It remains to be seen how the investigation will unfold and whether those responsible for the attack will be brought to justice.
