A wave of panic swept through Obeiba‑Ihima in Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, after the ancestral family home of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan came under violent attack by unidentified hoodlums.
The attackers, said to be armed with machetes and other dangerous weapons, stormed the property in the early hours of the morning, reportedly smashing windows and attempting to gain forceful entry into the compound. Eyewitness accounts suggest the invaders made off with suspected fetish objects—locally described as “charms”—before escaping under the cover of darkness.
In a swift response, officers of the Nigeria Police Force from the Okehi Division, in collaboration with local vigilantes and private security personnel stationed at the home, intervened and helped repel the attackers. Although no lives were lost and no one sustained serious injuries, the assault has since sparked fears of rising political tension in the area.
Senator Natasha, who represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly, described the incident as not only unfortunate but potentially politically motivated. Speaking to journalists, she recounted that the attack came barely 48 hours after her team had visited the community to inspect development projects facilitated under her legislative constituency programs.
“This wasn’t a random act of burglary,” the senator insisted. “It was targeted intimidation meant to instill fear. But we will not be deterred in our efforts to serve the people.”
Confirming the incident, the Kogi State Police Command said investigations were ongoing, and that the Commissioner of Police had directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to take over the case for a more robust inquiry. Police sources, however, declined to confirm the seizure of any charms, noting that reports of such items were under verification.
Meanwhile, a youth advocacy group known as Say No to Violence in Ebiraland condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly act against democratic values.” The group called on relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to book swiftly.
Political watchers in the state say the timing and location of the incident raise deep concerns, especially as it comes ahead of heightened political activities leading up to the next election cycle.
As of press time, calm had returned to Obeiba‑Ihima, but security around Senator Natasha’s family compound has been significantly beefed up. Community leaders and residents are now calling on the government to strengthen security in rural areas of Kogi, warning that repeated acts of violence could destabilize the region’s fragile peace.
