In a fiery statement issued on Wednesday, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Senator representing Kogi Central, confronted former governor Yahaya Bello, urging him to focus on defending himself against the ongoing corruption charges instead of pursuing efforts to have her recalled from the Senate.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sharp words were aimed at Bello, who is currently facing trial for a staggering N80.2 billion fraud charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The Senator’s comments came in response to a statement from the Kogi State Government, which accused her of making false claims regarding an assassination attempt by Bello, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo.
In her response, Akpoti-Uduaghan rejected the Kogi Government’s allegations, describing them as “malicious” and a blatant attempt at blackmail. The Senator remained defiant, reaffirming her commitment to the people of Kogi Central, despite the challenges she faces.
“I will advise the former governor to rather focus on clearing his name over allegations of fraudulent diversion of N80.2 billion, instead of attempting to destabilise the mandate given to me by the people of Kogi Central,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said in the statement. “My hands are tied with nothing but love for my people, and I will not betray them.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan pointed out that despite the former governor’s deep involvement in corruption allegations, he continues to push for actions that undermine the will of the people. She also highlighted the documented attacks against her during the last general elections, underscoring the ongoing effort to suppress her voice.
The Senator concluded with a powerful message: “This recall attempt is nothing but another ploy to undermine the people’s will. It is now very clear to the whole world how popular I am in my constituency. My people emphatically said no. No to injustice, no to fake recall, and no to Yahaya Bello and his allies.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bold stand signals a fierce battle ahead as she remains steadfast in her determination to serve her constituents, no matter the obstacles thrown her way.
