Test of Balls as Natasha Snubs Ban on Public Gathering by Kogi Govt. Presses Ahead with Constituency Visit

A high-stakes standoff is unfolding in Kogi State, Nigeria, as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, refuses to cancel her planned “homecoming” and Sallah rally, despite a directive from the Kogi State Police Command to do so.

The police warning, issued on April 1, 2025, cited a recent ban on political gatherings and processions by the Kogi State Government, which was announced on March 31, 2025, due to intelligence reports of potential security threats.

According to the police statement, released by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya, on behalf of the State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, credible information suggests that the event may be hijacked by hoodlums, potentially disrupting the peace in the state.

The police emphasized that they cannot afford to compromise the existing peace in the state and warned that they would enforce the law against anyone causing disturbances if the event proceeds.

The state government’s ban on political gatherings is part of broader security measures aimed at maintaining peace and order in the state. These measures also include regulations on convoys entering Kogi and the suspension of certain economic activities, as announced by Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo.

Despite the police directive, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to proceed with her visit, characterizing it as a non-political Eid-el-Fitr celebration with her constituents rather than a rally. Her media team had earlier dismissed rumors of cancellation, stating that the visit would proceed as planned. In a Facebook post on April 1, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan escalated tensions by stating that Governor Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio should be held responsible if her homecoming turns violent, alleging that the restrictions were politically motivated.

This standoff occurs amid ongoing controversies surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, including her six-month suspension from the Senate in March 2025 for violating Senate rules and her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio, which he denies. The situation remains fluid, with no confirmation yet on whether Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan will defy the police directive, although her team has indicated an intention to proceed with the event.

The developments have raised concerns about the potential for violence and instability in the state, and the situation is being closely monitored by stakeholders. The police and state government have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order, while Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s team has maintained that the event will be peaceful and focused on celebrating Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the standoff will be resolved and what implications it may have for the state and its people.