Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has declined to accept a congratulatory message from Governor Yahaya Bello following an Appeal Court judgment that upheld her victory at the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal. Bello had sent his congratulations to the senator after participating in the National Police Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday.
In his message, Governor Bello referred to Natasha as his sister and stressed the importance of respecting the court’s decision on her victory to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order in the state.
However, during an appearance on Channels Television, Natasha accused the governor of numerous attempts on her life and asserted that Governor Bello lacks an understanding of democratic principles.
She expressed her strong objections to the governor’s message, stating, “I would pretty much wish you had not played the Governor’s message here because I’m just getting to watch it now.” Natasha emphasized that endangering lives, property destruction, and interference with the electoral process could not be labeled as the beauty of democracy.
She went on to provide specific instances of alleged violence against her, including gunshots fired at her vehicle by the governor’s henchmen, with video evidence to support her claims. Natasha also cited an incident in which the governor reportedly obstructed election proceedings by digging gullies and blocking roads, actions she believed were aimed at jeopardizing her safety.
The rejection of the congratulatory message by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan underscores the ongoing tensions and political divisions in Kogi State.
