Residents of Kogi Central have reaffirmed their support for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, dismissing claims that the process lacks widespread backing. They insist that the initiative has broad support across the five local government areas, citing concerns that the senator’s actions have caused embarrassment beyond the country’s borders.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Kogi Central Elites Forum (KCEF) stood firm on their decision, describing the recall as a necessary step. The statement was signed by the forum’s President, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdulazeez Ibrahim, and Secretary, Prince Akerejola Johnson of Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area.
“This recall is purely driven by the people. The Ebira community has always been known for its independent thinking—we cannot be misled. Many who initially supported her have withdrawn their backing. We will not allow the integrity of our region and country to be compromised by an individual’s actions,” the statement read.
The group also criticized the senator’s handling of a recent seating dispute in the Senate, arguing that the situation was unnecessarily escalated into allegations of sexual harassment.
Addressing concerns about the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) involvement, the forum clarified that the electoral body’s role begins only after signatures have been collected and verified.
“INEC has no part in this phase of the process. We, the petitioners, are responsible for gathering the required number of signatures before the commission steps in for verification,” the statement explained.
The constituents urged the public to ignore attempts to misrepresent the recall, stressing that their actions are motivated by a desire for better representation.
“Our decision is clear: we want Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to return home. This will give her an opportunity to better understand the responsibilities of representing her people effectively.
“Ordinarily, we would stand by our own, but in this instance, she disregarded the rules of the Nigerian Senate and introduced narratives that have no basis in the institution’s history.
“Our investigations confirm the facts. The Senate is a place for serious legislative work, not for publicity stunts,” the statement concluded.
This recall effort follows recent controversies in the National Assembly, including allegations involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which emerged after Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was penalized for violating Senate procedures.
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