BREAKING: Senator Natasha defies Kogi ban, lands in hometown via chopper

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from her supporters and residents of Ihima in Kogi State, despite the state government’s ban on rallies and public gatherings.

As early as 8 a.m., supporters from the five local government areas in Kogi Central, which she represents, gathered in Ihima, Okehi LGA, to welcome their senator. The atmosphere was lively, with local musicians entertaining the crowd while they awaited her arrival.

To the delight of her teeming supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan made a grand entrance in a white helicopter, sparking loud cheers and applause from the crowd.

Addressing the gathering, she reaffirmed that her visit was not a political event but a celebration of Sallah with her constituents.

“Yesterday, we heard on the news that rallies and gatherings would not be allowed, that roads would be blocked, and convoys leading into the state would be restricted. I knew we were the targets,” she said.

“But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time. We are not having a rally. This is just me, the senator representing Kogi Central, coming down to celebrate Sallah with my people. I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free, to express our choice in gatherings and celebrations.”

The defiant homecoming comes amid heightened political tensions in Kogi, with the state government citing security concerns as the reason for its recent ban on rallies and large gatherings.

More details to follow…