Akpabio Behind Recall Effort, Using ‘EFCC’s Most Wanted’ to Target Me – Natasha

Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello of orchestrating the recall process against her, alleging that they are using fake constituents to push their agenda.

In a statement issued to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja, the embattled lawmaker expressed disbelief at how a Senate President could collaborate with one of the EFCC’s “most wanted” individuals in an attempt to undermine a sitting Senator for selfish political gain.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan thanked her supporters and the people of Kogi Central who turned out in large numbers to welcome her despite intimidation and obstacles. She assured them that she would remain steadfast and not disappoint them.

On Tuesday, residents from all five local government areas of Kogi Central gathered in Ihima, Okehi LGA, to welcome the PDP senator, despite a government-imposed ban on rallies and processions in the state.

The senator strongly challenged former Governor Yahaya Bello, asking him to reveal where he sourced the names of the fake constituents calling for her recall. She claimed that all available evidence points to Bello as the mastermind behind the recall effort.

Akpoti-Uduaghan further accused the former governor of continuing his political vendetta against her, which she said had been evident during the 2023 general elections when she was attacked multiple times by supporters of Bello.

She stated that the recall attempt was merely an extension of Bello’s previous actions to undermine her, saying, “I advise the former governor to focus on clearing his name over the allegations of fraudulent diversion of N89.2 billion, instead of trying to destabilize the mandate the people of Kogi Central gave me.”

The senator highlighted Bello’s ongoing corruption allegations, adding, “His hands are already full with these charges, yet he continues to frustrate the will of the people. This recall attempt is nothing more than another attempt to subvert the people’s choice.”

Natasha expressed confidence in her popularity, stating, “It is now clear to everyone how popular I am in my constituency. Despite the efforts to suppress the people’s will, they emphatically rejected the recall. No to injustice, no to fake recall, no to Yahaya Bello and his allies.”

She thanked her constituents for resisting government intimidation and showing their unwavering support. “We appreciate our supporters for their massive show of love. Even our oppressors have only become more unpopular while we continue to gain support.”

In conclusion, Natasha assured her people, “As I gain more support, I will do even more for them. I will not betray them and will continue to give my best. They can be assured of our commitment to top-notch representation at all times.”