Residents of Kogi Central have reiterated their commitment to recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, rejecting claims that the process lacks widespread support.
According to them, the initiative has backing from across the five local government areas, citing concerns over the senator’s actions, which they believe have brought embarrassment to the region at an international level.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Kogi Central Elites Forum (KCEF) emphasized their determination to see the recall through.
The statement, signed by the group’s President, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdulazeez Ibrahim, and Secretary, Prince Akerejola Johnson of Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area, dismissed allegations that external forces were behind the initiative.
“This recall is entirely driven by the people. The Ebira community has always been known for its independent decision-making—we cannot be manipulated. Many who once supported her have reconsidered their stance. We refuse to compromise the integrity of our region and nation for the impulsive actions of one senator,” the statement noted.
They particularly criticized how she handled a recent Senate seating dispute, arguing that turning the issue into an allegation of sexual harassment was unnecessary and damaging.
Addressing the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) stance on the recall process, the group clarified that INEC’s involvement would begin only after the initial phase.
“INEC’s role starts after we, the petitioners, have completed signature collection and met the necessary threshold for verification,” they explained.
The constituents urged the public to disregard political narratives attempting to discredit the recall process, stressing that their decision was in the best interest of the district.
“As a people, we are determined to bring Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan back home. We believe this period away from the Senate will provide her an opportunity to better understand the responsibilities of effective representation.
“Under normal circumstances, we would not allow any form of intimidation against one of our own. However, in this case, she disregarded the rules of the Nigerian Senate and introduced narratives that have no precedent in its history.
“Our findings have revealed the truth. Lawmaking is a serious responsibility, not a platform for social media antics,” the statement concluded.
This development follows recent controversies in the National Assembly, including accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio after Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan faced disciplinary action for failing to comply with Senate regulations.
