Kogi State, Nigeria – Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan defied a state-imposed ban on rallies and processions on Tuesday, receiving a hero’s welcome from her supporters in Ihima, Okehi LGA, Kogi State. Despite warnings from the state government and security forces, thousands of her supporters gathered across Kogi Central’s five local government areas to greet the embattled PDP lawmaker.

Arriving in dramatic fashion via a white helicopter, Akpoti-Uduaghan was greeted with cheers and loud celebrations. The senator, who has been at the center of controversy in recent months, took the opportunity to address her supporters, downplaying the significance of the government’s ban on rallies.

In her speech, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that the gathering was not a political rally but a simple celebration of Sallah, a significant Muslim holiday, with her constituents. She said, “Yesterday, we heard on the news that rallies and gatherings will not be allowed, that roads will be blocked, and convoys leading into the state will not be allowed. I knew that we were the targets. But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time.”

She continued, “We are not having a rally. This is just me, the Senator representing Kogi Central, coming down to her people to celebrate this festive time – the Sallah with you, and there is nothing wrong with that. I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free, to express our choice in gatherings and celebrations.”

The senator’s visit comes after a series of tensions, including a curfew imposed by the Okehi LGA Chairman and stern warnings from the police. Akpoti-Uduaghan has previously accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello of orchestrating a smear campaign against her. She further alleged that these individuals were behind security threats aimed at intimidating her and her supporters.

The embattled lawmaker, who is currently suspended from the Senate amid a sexual harassment controversy involving Akpabio, insists that her ordeal is politically motivated. Additionally, a recall process against her is underway, which has only intensified the tension surrounding her visit.

Despite these challenges, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters turned out in full force, sending a strong message of solidarity and defiance against the political forces they believe are working to silence their representative.