A group of constituents from Kogi Central Senatorial District has reaffirmed their determination to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the National Assembly, pledging to refine the process to meet legal requirements.
In a statement issued on Thursday by Salihu Habib, the concerned voters insisted that their efforts would continue despite challenges.
They expressed gratitude to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for verifying 208,132 signatures—amounting to 43.86%—in their petition.
Their renewed commitment follows INEC’s earlier announcement that the recall petition did not meet the constitutional threshold.
The commission, in a post on its X handle, stated that the petition fell short of the requirements outlined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
However, the petitioners maintained that they had gathered signatures exceeding the necessary 50% plus one threshold and had submitted their request with proper documentation.
They argued that INEC’s validation of 43.86% was proof that the senator had lost the confidence of her constituents.
“INEC appears to have cancelled at least 35,000 signatures for administrative reasons,” the statement read.
“We will engage with INEC transparently, within the legal framework, to ensure our petition is handled fairly.”
The group further appreciated INEC for dispelling doubts about the authenticity of their figures, emphasizing that their movement had genuine grassroots support.
“We thank INEC for proving that the majority of Kogi Central stands with us and that our numbers were not artificially inflated like those of a desperate lawmaker,” they asserted.
Describing the recall as “non-negotiable,” the constituents accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of “misconduct and divisiveness,” vowing to restore dignified representation in Kogi Central.
“We can no longer tolerate a politician who will say or do anything to remain relevant,” they declared.
“Her recent public rally, where she made inflammatory remarks, was watched by the entire nation.”
The group reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing all legal means to ensure their voices are heard, stating, “After God, power belongs to the people.”