***Senator vows to go ahead with her peaceful Sallah celebration with constituents
The Kogi State Police Command has directed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagan to cancel her planned homecoming event in the Central Senatorial District, citing security concerns.
Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye issued the directive in a statement released on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya. According to the statement, the decision aligns with the state government’s recent ban on political gatherings, which was announced on Monday.
In a swift reaction however, the senate stated, “My dear people of Kogi Central, I look forward to our PEACEFUL Sallah celebrations today. However, should we be met with or infiltrated by violence, Nigerians should hold Gov Òdodo, Yahaya Bello & SP Godswill Akpabio wholly responsible.”
The police in its part warned that intelligence reports indicate plans by hoodlums to hijack the rally and cause unrest, emphasizing that the existing peace in Kogi State must not be jeopardized.
In response, Akpoti-Uduagan has insisted that her visit is a non-political gathering meant to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents, not a rally.
With tensions rising, all eyes are now on whether the senator will proceed with her visit or heed the police directive to avoid potential clashes.