Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has confirmed that she will proceed with her visit to Kogi Central for the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, despite the Kogi State government’s ban on rallies and public gatherings.
Natasha, who is currently suspended from the Senate following a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, had planned to meet with her constituents to celebrate Eid. However, on March 31, the Kogi State government imposed a ban on rallies and public gatherings, citing security concerns.
The State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, stated that while Sallah celebrations had been peaceful, there were intelligence reports indicating possible security threats.
He warned that some individuals were allegedly planning to organize violent rallies under the guise of political or religious events. The government also mandated that anyone entering Kogi with a security convoy must obtain clearance from state security agencies.
“In Kogi Central, intelligence at our disposal points to the fact that some elements are planning to stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations.
This is to create a platform for wanton destruction and breakdown of law and order. These flashes of disturbances are raising tension in the state and threatening to breach public peace and security.
In view of this, and effective immediately, the Kogi State Government has placed a total ban on all forms of rallies or public gatherings that have the potential to disrupt public peace.
This decision has been necessitated by intelligence reports indicating that certain individuals are plotting to infiltrate the state under the guise of organizing rallies, using fake security personnel to foment trouble and compromise the security of law-abiding citizens of our dear state.
While the government recognizes the constitutional rights of citizens to gather and express themselves, security considerations must take precedence in the interest of public safety.
As such, no individual, group, or organization is permitted to hold any form of rally within the state until further notice.”
In response, Natasha’s media team dismissed speculations that she might cancel her visit. They assured supporters that her trip to Kogi Central would go ahead as planned, despite the restrictions.
“We are pleased to confirm that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sallah visit to Kogi Central senatorial district will proceed as planned. Despite rumours circulating online, there has been no official announcement from our office regarding the cancellation of this visit.”
This development has sparked discussions about political tensions in the state and the implications of the government’s restrictions on public gatherings.
