Kogi: Senator Natasha defies curfew, storms rally with huge crowd
The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, defied security restrictions imposed on Kogi state hours before her homecoming rally.
The lawmaker, who arrived by helicopter on Tuesday, was greeted by a jubilant crowd in Okehi local government area.
Speaking with her jubilant supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that they were breaking no law as the gathering was only a rally.
“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,” the lawmaker told her supporters and constituents.
“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,” she said.
Earlier, the Kogi State government placed a wholesome ban on all forms of rallies or public gatherings that have the potential to disrupt public peace.
The ban was contained in the Security Alert statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, in Lokoja.
Fanwo explained that the state government remained unwavering in its commitment to protecting the lives and property of all residents and ensuring that the state remained a haven of peace and security.
“In light of credible intelligence reports, the government has deemed it necessary to take proactive measures to prevent any form of security breach that could destabilize the state,” he said, highlighting three flashpoints where security of lives and property were being threatened.
“In Kasemiya, Katubo and Umozu Ette all in Kogi Local Government Area in Kogi West, fishing activities have resulted in serious crisis, leading to the loss of two lives.
“All fishing activities in Kogi Local Government Area is hereby suspended until peace is completely restored. Security operatives have been deployed to the affected areas to restore peace and implement our directive.
He also mentioned Ankpa Local Government Area, specifically in Enjema District, a communal clash between Ika-Odele and Ika Ochala is threatening the peace of Kogi East.
