Constituents in Kogi Central Senatorial District have initiated a recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing dissatisfaction with her legislative performance. Meanwhile, the exercise began on Wednesday in Okehi Local Government Area, where voters gathered to endorse the petition.
Nura Ibrahim, a participant, emphasized the effort transcends political parties, reflecting widespread frustration over unmet priorities. Specifically, he criticized the senator’s alleged neglect of poverty reduction, infrastructure, and education. Ibrahim claimed attempts to address these issues were met with “disdain and arrogance” from Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“This decision followed exhaustive consultations,” Ibrahim clarified. “Stakeholders repeatedly sought dialogue but received no meaningful response, forcing this action.” Consequently, organizers plan to collect signatures across all polling units in Kogi Central’s five LGAs over two days.
However, allegations of manipulation emerged during the process. For instance, a town crier reportedly misled Okehi residents on Tuesday by announcing an empowerment program. Attendees later discovered the event aimed to collect voter card numbers in exchange for cash.
In response, State Resident Electoral Commissioner Gabriel Longpet denied awareness of the recall. “No official communication exists beyond social media rumors,” he stated. Additionally, INEC guidelines mandate written notification to the senator and publication on its website, steps yet to be confirmed.
Currently, Akpoti-Uduaghan serves a six-month Senate suspension following a confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Earlier, she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment during a session, leading to her suspension for rule violations.
As per Nigeria’s electoral guidelines, petitioners must submit a recall request to INEC’s chairman, backed by over 50% of registered voters. Signatures will form the Register of Petitioners (Form EC41), verified at polling units.
Moreover, the senator must receive written notice alongside the legislature’s presiding officer. Critics question whether organizers can meet these stringent requirements, given the logistical challenges and reported irregularities.
If verified, the petition could escalate into a formal recall referendum. Conversely, failure to authenticate signatures or prove compliance may halt the process. Observers note such efforts rarely succeed due to high thresholds and political resistance.
Ultimately, the effort’s success hinges on mobilizing majority support across diverse communities. Proponents argue it reflects democratic accountability, while opponents dismiss it as a politically motivated distraction.
Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension complicates her ability to address constituents’ grievances publicly. Supporters allege the recall attempt exploits her temporary absence to undermine her influence.
Residents remain divided: some praise the initiative as overdue, while others condemn it as destabilizing. Consequently, tensions linger as organizers race to finalize the petition amid scrutiny.
For now, INEC’s silence leaves the process in limbo. Until official confirmation emerges, the recall’s legitimacy remains contested, prolonging uncertainty in Kogi Central’s political landscape.
Given these complexities, analysts predict the effort may falter without broader consensus or institutional backing. Nonetheless, it underscores deepening discontent with representation, signaling potential shifts in voter expectations ahead of future elections.
