“Nobody Can Stop Me From Coming Home”: Sen. Natasha Declares “I Know My Roots, I’m Not A Bastard” As Supporters Gather
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has stated that her homecoming does not violate any law, despite the Kogi State Government’s ban on rallies and public gatherings.
Addressing her supporters on Tuesday, the senator clarified that her visit was not a political rally but a peaceful gathering to celebrate Sallah with her constituents.
“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 permitted. I knew that we were the targets. But then I said, this is not political season; this is not campaign time,” she said.
“Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I’m an Ebira woman; this is my land. I’m the daughter of the late Jimoh Abdul Akpoti. I know my roots; I’m not a bastard, and I’m not afraid of anybody.”
She further emphasized that her visit was within her rights as a Nigerian citizen.
“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 – 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.”
Earlier, the Kogi State Police Command had issued a warning, urging the senator to cancel her homecoming event, citing security concerns.
According to a statement by the police spokesperson, William Aya, intelligence reports indicated that some hoodlums planned to hijack the gathering, potentially leading to unrest.
“The call for cancellation becomes necessary, noting that intelligence reveals that some hoodlums plan to hijack the process and cause a disturbance of peace in the State. The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the State is currently enjoying,” Aya said.
Despite the ban, large crowds of supporters turned out in solidarity, chanting and holding placards as they awaited the senator’s arrival at her country home in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area.
