Tensions rise in Kogi as Senator Natasha rejects ban, vows to proceed with sallah visit

Tensions are mounting in Kogi State as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan remains resolute in her plan to visit Kogi Central for Sallah celebrations on Tuesday, despite a recent ban on rallies and convoy movements issued by Governor Usman Ododo.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to proceed with her visit, dismissing rumors that she had canceled the trip. She reassured her supporters that she remains steadfast in engaging with her constituents, regardless of the state’s “intimidation tactics.”

A statement from her media team, released early Tuesday, confirmed that the senator’s Sallah visit would continue as scheduled. It read: “We are pleased to confirm that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sallah visit to Kogi Central will proceed as planned. Despite rumors circulating online, there has been no official announcement from our office regarding the cancellation of this visit.”

The senator urged her supporters to ignore fearmongering and come out in large numbers to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her. “Her dedication to the people of Kogi Central is unwavering, and she looks forward to celebrating with them. We assure the public that all necessary arrangements are in place for a successful and joyous event,” the statement added.

This announcement comes just days after the Kogi State Government, citing security concerns, issued a total ban on rallies and public gatherings across the state. The decision followed intelligence reports suggesting that some groups were planning violent rallies disguised as political or religious agitations.

A statement from Governor Usman Ododo’s office noted: “In Kogi Central, intelligence reports suggest that some elements are planning to stage violent rallies under the guise of political and religious agitations. The government has expressed concern that such gatherings could lead to destruction and public disorder, prompting the decision to ban all rallies across the state.”

The state government emphasized that while the constitutional right to peaceful assembly is recognized, security considerations must take priority.

Governor Ododo also directed that anyone entering Kogi State with a convoy of security personnel must first obtain clearance from the relevant security agencies. He further instructed Local Government Chairmen to take charge of security in their areas and called on community leaders to support efforts to maintain peace.

Despite these challenges, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s commitment to her constituents in Kogi Central remains firm as she prepares for her Sallah visit.