Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Claims Recall Attempt Orchestrated by Yahaya Bello

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has accused the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, of initiating her recall process using fraudulent constituents.

In a statement released yesterday, Akpoti-Uduaghan asserted that all available evidence points to Bello as the mastermind behind the recall efforts. She highlighted Bello’s past actions, referencing accusations that he orchestrated attacks against her during the 2023 general elections when she was a candidate.

Describing the recall attempt as part of Bello’s ongoing political vendetta, Akpoti-Uduaghan challenged him to disclose the origins of the fictitious names used by his supposed constituents.

In her statement, she said, “I advise the former governor to focus on clearing his name regarding allegations of fraudulent diversion of N89.2 billion, rather than attempting to undermine the mandate given to me by the people of Kogi Central.

“The former governor is already embroiled in corruption allegations and is still trying to frustrate the will of the people. His actions during the last general election, which included sponsoring numerous attacks against me, are well documented. This recall attempt is merely another tactic to undermine the people’s will.

“It is now clear to everyone how popular I am in my constituency. Despite efforts to suppress their voices, my people have stood firm. They have said no to injustice, no to the exploitation of women, no to fake recalls, and no to Yahaya Bello and his allies.

“They rallied in large numbers to resist government intimidation. I am grateful for their overwhelming support. Our oppressors’ actions have only made them more unpopular, while we have gained more support.

“I will continue to fight for my people and remain committed to delivering excellent representation.”

Isaiah Ijele, a chieftain of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), also weighed in, alleging that the Kogi State government was resorting to fear tactics and political intimidation. He criticized the government’s last-minute ban on public gatherings ahead of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s homecoming rally.

In an interview with ARISE NEWS, Ijele dismissed the government’s security concerns as a mere façade, suggesting that the restrictions stemmed from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s increasing influence.

“They are jittery,” he stated. “They fear the charisma and presence that Senator Natasha brings. Among the members of the Senate, she is the one who has won her elections fairly, without the games played against us in 2023. She has the grassroots support, and that is why they are afraid.”