Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the Senate, has expressed her gratitude towards the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its decision to reject attempts to recall her from office. She commended the electoral body for its role in maintaining justice and upholding the rule of law despite the pressures exerted by certain individuals and groups.
In a statement issued by the senator, she noted that the petition for her recall had been spearheaded by what she referred to as “sponsored groups” and individuals. These, she claimed, were part of an attempt to undermine the democratic process and derail her representation of the people of Kogi Central. INEC’s decision to dismiss the recall petition was announced on Thursday, with the electoral body stating that the petition did not meet the constitutional requirements necessary to proceed with the recall process.
“The petition for the recall of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the requirement of the Constitution. Therefore, no further action shall be taken on the matter,” INEC declared.
Reacting to this development, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed her satisfaction with INEC’s stance. She attributed the rejection of the recall to the failure of those she believes were behind the effort, which she claimed included former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The senator pointed out that such forces, including those with alleged legal troubles, were determined to disrupt her position in the Senate.
“God has put to shame anti-democratic forces plotting my recall from the Senate, including one of the most wanted persons by the EFCC, former governor Yahaya Bello,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.
The senator went on to further criticize those she believes were involved in the recall plot, describing them as anti-democratic and corrupt. She also took a direct swipe at Yahaya Bello and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging their involvement in the effort to recall her. “The voice of the people is the voice of God. Nobody, be it former Governor Yahaya Bello or Senate President Godswill Akpabio and their associates can toy with the mandate freely given by the resolute people of Kogi Central without being put to shame,” she said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan also noted that despite the efforts against her, she had remained steadfast, relying on her faith and the support of the people in her district. She stressed that the rejection of the recall effort was not just a personal victory but a win for justice and fairness. She added that the decision by INEC demonstrated the independence of the electoral body and its commitment to upholding the law.
“I did not exercise any fear because I have a God that can never fail and I have people on my side. The decision to reject the recall process is a justice against injustice. INEC has proven to be truly independent and history will never forget this justice,” the senator stated.
In closing, Akpoti-Uduaghan thanked her supporters, particularly the people of Kogi Central, for their unwavering backing. She expressed confidence that the political landscape would soon change, with a shift away from corruption, violence, and election manipulation. “To God be the glory, we have defeated them again. This development is another record-breaking against those who prefer coming from the backyard, the manipulators, election riggers, the violent merchants, and their allies in Kogi Central and beyond,” she said.
The senator reiterated her commitment to serving the people and vowed to continue her fight for justice, stating that her mission was to bring freedom and progress to Nigeria.
“Please bear it in mind that your days are numbered in politics because the new era has come when people will no longer reckon or identify with evil politicians whose trademarks are not more than violence, rigging and corruption,” she concluded.
