In an act of open defiance against government directives, supporters of suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, have mobilized on the streets in anticipation of her homecoming rally, despite explicit warnings from both the state government and police authorities.
KIIN360 can confirm that despite a clear ban on political gatherings issued by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo and reinforced by Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye just yesterday, crowds of enthusiastic supporters were seen today displaying placards and banners expressing solidarity with the suspended lawmaker.
Images obtained by our correspondents show supporters carrying messages such as “Welcome home, worthy daughter of Ebiraland. The people of Okene are solidly behind you” and “The people of Adavi are solidly behind you” – a clear indication of continued grassroots support for the controversial senator in her home region.
CP Dantawaye had specifically addressed the planned rally on Monday, declaring it in violation of existing security protocols and urging the senator to cancel her scheduled Sallah rally in Kogi Central Senatorial District. His appeal appears to have fallen on deaf ears as preparations continue unabated.
The political climate in Kogi State has grown increasingly tense following these developments, with the suspended senator’s loyalists appearing determined to proceed with welcoming their representative despite the official prohibition on public gatherings.
This standoff comes amid related developments, including a curfew imposed by a local government chairman ahead of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituency visit, and the senator’s own public confirmation that she intends to proceed with her Sallah visit despite the rally ban.
As the situation unfolds, security agencies remain on high alert, while political observers monitor what could potentially escalate into a significant confrontation between state authorities and supporters of the suspended lawmaker.
