Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has insisted that there is no legal restriction preventing her from celebrating Sallah with her constituents, dismissing claims that her visit was a political rally.
Addressing the people of Kogi Central during her homecoming visit on Tuesday, she clarified that her visit was not a political rally but simply a return to her community to mark the festive occasion.
She maintained that her actions did not violate any laws, emphasising that Nigerians have the right to gather and celebrate freely.
She said, “We are not having a rally. This is just me, the senator representing Kogi Central coming back to our people to celebrate this festive time, Sallah with you and there is nothing wrong with that. I am breaking no law.
“This is Nigeria, we have the right to be free, to express our choices in gathering and celebration. There is no law in this country, Nigeria, there is no law in the constitution that prohibits me from coming home to celebrate Sallah with my people.”
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Earlier, the lawmaker that Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, and former Governor Yahaya Bello should be held responsible if violence erupts during her homecoming.
In a post on her verified Facebook page, she wrote, “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.”
Her visit comes just hours after the Kogi State Government imposed a ban on rallies and public gatherings, citing security concerns.
The government also restricted fishing and certain other activities, following the reported deaths of two individuals in Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette in Kogi Local Government Area.
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