Social media in Nigeria is buzzing with reports that the people of Kogi Central are being deceived into recalling their beloved Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Development Diaries understands that a group of people are gathering in Okehi local government area and lining up to recall a senator who has been doing her job, all because someone rang a bell (literally) and promised them empowerment and a little cash?
Trickery and deception
Eyewitnesses say a town crier went around the area, promising empowerment programmes. People came out, naturally hoping for a better future, only to be ambushed with a sinister plot to collect their voter card numbers in exchange for some money.
Why are they so desperate to recall Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan? Could it be because she dared to stand up against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio?
Or because she boldly accused him of sexual harassment and exposed his abuse of power? Suddenly, a woman who stood for her people is being labeled arrogant and unapproachable.
Is this really about performance, or is it about power?
Let’s not forget that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is currently serving a six-month suspension because she allegedly ‘ran foul of Senate rules’ during a confrontation with the senate president.
The lies they tell
One of the so-called ‘concerned constituents’ claimed that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has failed to address issues like poverty, infrastructure, and education.
Really? Are we talking about the same Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan who has been championing development projects and fighting for the marginalised? Are we forgetting how vocal she has been about women’s rights and social justice?
It is clear that this recall is not about her performance. It is about silencing her voice. They are afraid of a woman who refuses to be cowed. They are threatened by her courage and vision. And instead of addressing real issues, they are busy plotting political coups in the guise of public dissatisfaction.
Kogi Central, don’t be deceived
The truth is, these politicians think they can manipulate the good people of Kogi Central. They think they can buy their loyalty with a few naira notes and empty promises.
But we know that this move is a desperate, last-ditch attempt by disgruntled politicians who simply cannot stomach the fact that a fearless, hardworking woman has dared to challenge the mighty Senate authority.
Instead of being hoodwinked into signing away your representation, you should ask the real questions: why are these power brokers so hell-bent on recalling Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan right after her clash with the Senate leadership?
Why are they tricking innocent people into signing recall petitions under false pretenses?
What have these so-called stakeholders done for Kogi Central other than chase selfish political interests?
To the people of Kogi Central, do not sign any petition without knowing the full details. Do not let anyone collect your voter card number for some pittance. Our vote and our voice are worth far more than that.
Development Diaries also calls on community leaders, civil society organisations, and youth groups to rise up now and educate the people on their rights.
Photo source: Leadership
