Kogi Central elites dismiss EFCC petition against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as political

The Kogi Central Progressive Elites have issued a strong rebuttal to the petition filed with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seeking an investigation into Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan. The group, representing progressive voices in the Kogi Central senatorial district, stated that the demand for a probe into the senator’s cash empowerment programme is driven by political calculations rather than a genuine commitment to accountability.

Speaking on behalf of the organization on November 4, president Abdullahi Omeiza contended that the current unrest is a strategic move designed to limit the senator's expanding political power before the 2027 general elections. Omeiza urged the Peter Obi-Rabiu Kwankwaso Movement, which backs the NDC presidential ticket, to provide tangible proof to the relevant bodies rather than depending on public statements. The group maintained that while public officials must be held accountable, anti-corruption agencies should not be used as tools for political intimidation.

Background

The controversy centres on a cash empowerment initiative organised by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, which the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement has characterised as open vote-buying. In reply, the Kogi Central Progressive Elites maintained that offering monetary support to local residents does not necessarily amount to illegal electoral bribery. They insisted that the objectives, circumstances, and legal context of such initiatives must be thoroughly examined before conclusions are drawn.

Isah Jonny, serving as the Assistant Publicity Secretary for the group, additionally claimed that the campaign is being funded by people who are threatened by the senator's widespread popularity and acceptance within the district. Jonny faulted attempts to criminalise legitimate constituency interventions merely because they involve financial assistance to beneficiaries. He stressed that accusations alone do not establish guilt and insisted that any inquiry must be based on reliable evidence and proper legal procedures. The organization highlighted the senator's legislative work, community ties, and empowerment programs as proof of her dedication to public service, adding that local residents are content with her representation.

Why it matters

This dispute highlights the intensifying political tensions in Kogi State as the 2027 elections approach. The Kogi Central Progressive Elites warned against using the EFCC as an instrument of political intimidation, stressing that the final decision on the senator’s political future belongs to the voters in Kogi Central. Omeiza noted that while political organisations have the right to campaign for their preferred candidates, they must respect the democratic mandate of the electorate. The group’s stance reflects a broader concern among local elites about the weaponisation of anti-corruption agencies to target political opponents, particularly those with significant grassroots support. By calling for issue-based engagement rather than personal attacks, the group aims to steer the political discourse in the district toward development and governance rather than partisan conflict.

What happens next

The Kogi Central Progressive Elites have urged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters to remain calm and focused on development issues affecting the senatorial district. They called on all political actors to pursue constructive engagement and issue-based campaigns. The group expressed certainty that the 2027 general elections will allow the residents of Kogi Central to evaluate their representative and decide her political standing through voting. At the same time, reports indicate that the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement intends to block the senator's re-election to the National Assembly, although the Kogi Central elites have rejected these warnings and urged opponents to offer viable alternatives and a persuasive development plan rather than focusing on personal attacks against the senator.