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Tag: Natasha Akpoti

  • Defiant Homecoming – Natasha Akpoti’s Repeated Subversion of Security Warnings is Dangerous and People Could Get Hurt

    Defiant Homecoming – Natasha Akpoti’s Repeated Subversion of Security Warnings is Dangerous and People Could Get Hurt

    By Isah Amoto Ibrahim 

    In open defiance of security advisories and a government ban, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central went ahead with a Sallah Day rally, once again prioritizing political optics over the safety of her constituents. Her latest action – widely criticized as reckless and politically motivated – recalls a near-identical crisis in 2023, when her interference almost compromised state security during a time of heightened terror threats.

    On February 24, 2023 during the administration of then-Governor Yahaya Bello, the Kogi State Government, acting on credible intelligence, cut off a secondary access road in the Okehi axis. It would be recalled that an explosion rocked the Okehi local government secretariat complex on February 21, 2023. The police public relations officer, SP William Aya revealed at the time that gunmen had stormed the Secretariat around 5 pm and planted the explosion which ripped through the administrative block of the Secretariat. 

    The incident further heightened tensions which had remained high since multiple coordinated bomb blasts ripped through the Okene city centre area around the palace of the Ohinoyi of Egbiraland earlier on December 29, 2022. The incident, which happened just before a state visit by former President Muhammadu Buhari claimed three lives and sent shockwaves through the state and the nation, was linked to terror elements. In response, the intelligence community advised that certain routes be restricted to prevent a broader attack during the upcoming general elections of February 25, 2023.

    Rather than support the state’s effort to forestall further bloodshed, Natasha Akpoti, then a contender for the Kogi Central senatorial seat as candidate of the PDP, mobilized her supporters to forcibly reopen the sealed road, claiming the closure was an act of political suppression targeted at her. In a rather shocking display of selfishness and disregard for her constituents, the Senator alleged that Governor Yahaya Bello had ordered the excavation of the roads to obstruct the elections and keep her hostage. The politician appeared uncaring that her actions subverted security agency warnings, nearly derailed carefully laid counter-terrorism operations and put entire communities at risk.

    Fast forward to 2025, and history appears to be repeating itself. Last week, the Kogi State Government – already contending with communal crises in several communities, an upsurge in banditry and kidnappings and the heightened risk posed by the expected influx of sallah returnees – imposed a ban in at-risk communities across several local government areas of the state and banned all political rallies. This was based on fresh intelligence indicating plans by hoodlums to hijack public gatherings during the festive season. Echoing the government’s concern, the Kogi State police command issued a formal warning to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to cancel her planned homecoming rally. She defied the directive on Monday, and her supporters flooded the streets in a show of strength that security analysts have described as ‘a calculated provocation’ in an already tense environment.

    The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, explained that the security measures were enacted to prevent the infiltration of terrorists and the use of fake security operatives to foment chaos. ‘This is not politics, this is security,’ he said. ‘We will not allow a repeat of the 2023 situation where safety precautions were flouted and roads were forcefully reopened at great risk to citizens.’

    Observers have begun to question Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s persistent disregard for security protocols – especially during periods of elevated tension and credible threats. Her latest rally, held in defiance of police warnings and a curfew imposed by the Okehi Local Government Council, once again placed residents in harm’s way. Many warn that the deliberate politicization of public safety is not only irresponsible but deeply dangerous. ‘We were lucky when she did this in the past, we will not always be lucky if this trend is allowed to continue.’, said one. 

    The dangers of such behavior are far from abstract. Defying intelligence-led measures, as Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan did then by mobilizing locals to reopen a road sealed on security advice, is reckless and risks exposing the area to repeat or even more devastating attacks. The 2022 and 2023 bombings, even during a presidential visit when the nation’s best security apparati were out in full force remains a painful reminder of what is at stake, and what could happen if security warnings are flagrantly ignored. 

    It will be recalled that not long ago, Kogi Central – particularly the Okene and Okehi axis – frequently devolved into murderous crises. The violence claimed the lives of over 300 people, mainly youths, over the years. It took the iron-fisted security interventions of former Governor Yahaya Bello to bring the mayhem and bloodletting to a halt and restore peace, allowing several previously banned cultural activities to be restored in Kogi Central. 

    However, the region remains so volatile that unauthorized mass gatherings can quickly spiral into civil unrest during political events, cultural festivals or other festivities, like this week’s sallah festivities. We must remember that several incidents, including the senator’s ongoing recall, has the potential to ignite violence, especially when infiltrated by political thugs or opportunistic actors.

    Read Also: Natasha Akpoti: We can’t normalise injustice – Akah Nnani

    Beyond the physical danger of a breakdown in law and order, the senator’s actions erode public trust in security institutions and undermine the rule of law. Additionally, such defiance stretches already burdened security agencies, forcing them to divert critical resources from counter-terrorism operations to manage avoidable chaos.

    This pattern of prioritizing political theatre over public protection must be curtailed. As Nigeria grapples with deepening security challenges, leadership must be exercised with responsibility and wisdom. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent actions do not reflect such virtues. Indeed, she appears uncomfortably cavalier about the people she claims to represent. If the tragedies of the past have taught us anything, it is that peace is fragile and must never be gambled for political gain. The people of Kogi Central deserve safety – and it starts with a leadership that respects it.

    Isah Amoto Ibrahim, a Concerned Constituent writes in from Adavi LGA.

  • Natasha or ‘Batasha’: Who’s to blame?

    Natasha or ‘Batasha’: Who’s to blame?

    “I’ve tried and tried and tried to avoid this subject. Not because I didn’t have a thousand things to say. But you girls will not allow it to rest,” complained Christabel that weekend as we were washing and spreading our clothes on the lines by the tap.

    “Hmmm…Christabel be careful o! Don’t let them draw you out, my hand no dey o!” I whispered to myself as I spread my washed clothes on the line that morning. It was my last wash before my outings marking this year’s World Poetry Day celebration.

    Even though we did not plan it, most of the girls at the Women Corner found themselves downstairs that morning doing their laundry. But it wasn’t a surprise to me though. There had been a power outage for over two weeks, and everyone had to abandon their washing machines, and the washerwomen were now overworked. All was going smoothly until Ada and Sexy Jola came around.

    To be precise, it was Barrister Ada, who first raised the Senator Natasha Akpoti and the Senate President’s saga after settling down to wash.

    “Ehen, Christabel, Jolaolu, Tinu, Mummy Fawaz, what’s your take on that my learned colleague, Senator Natasha’s issue with the Senate President?”

    Read Also: Nigeria’s life expectancy crisis and urgent call for action

    “If you’d ask me, I would say no comment,” Christabel first stated.

    “Ah-ah-ah…maka why,” Ada queried.

    “I trust you girls but I am very careful these days about what I say especially around women,” as if she heard my whispers, Christabel offered, and sparked off some heated reactions. “Why?” “How do you mean?” “Una done come again o!” “Explain yourself.”

    “Calm down,” Christabel stated as she wiped the foam off her hands as if getting ready for a debate, and continued, “When women gather, you must be careful what you say, else by the time your words come back to you, they would have added salt and pepper plus crayfish to the matter. So I simply do not want any trouble. That is me as a woman’s leader speaking.

    “But as a woman talking to my personal girls, I’d like to ask at what point should a woman speak out against any form of harassment? Once we have that answered, the next question is, how should one go about seeking redress; what should we say or not say, so that it doesn’t rubbish the issue at hand or make light of the protest, those are the questions that Natasha’s case has raised in my head…?”

    “This one na JAMB questions o!” Jolaolu protested, “My take is if we encourage our children to raise their voices and seek redress against bullies and harassment, we should lead by example.”

    “What came as a shock to me was how fast the issue divided the womenfolk. Like according to one of my friends, Nena, we now have the Natasha and Batasha groups,” Tinu noted.

    “Which one be Natasha and Batasha again, Tinu? All the grammarians, una done come o,” Lady P, who was already done washing but was waiting to give her opinion, said.

    “The Natasha of this world are those women speaking out their truths and the ‘Batashas’ are women doing everything to talk them down or going against them,” Tinu explained.

    “Wow! See creativity! I wouldn’t have been about to put it that way. Tinu I hail,” I saluted Tinu our Geologist; she smiled and said, “Na you I dey copy!” Knowing where the conversation would go next, I carried my buckets and made to escape, but Barrister Ada’s words stopped me on my track, “Evelyn, you haven’t said anything since.”

    “Ada, I was actually waiting to hear yours first,” I said and excused myself.

  • Natasha Akpoti: We can’t normalise injustice – Akah Nnani

    Natasha Akpoti: We can’t normalise injustice – Akah Nnani

    Actor Akah Nnani has thrown his weight behind Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who recently made allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    On his Instagram, Nnani expressed his deep concern over the systemic failure to protect women in Nigeria, particularly those in positions of power.

    He questioned the safety and dignity of women in the country, highlighting the broader implications of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s experience.

    The actor emphasised that the issue goes beyond one individual’s experience, stressing that it is a symptom of a larger problem.

    He called on men to take a stand against injustice, stating that silence is complicity.

    Nnani urged men with influence, power, and integrity to use their voices to promote change.

    He emphasised the importance of creating a society where women are valued, respected, and protected.

    “There comes a time when silence is betrayal. Today, I choose to speak. This is not just about one woman. This is about a system that has failed to protect its own. If a female senator is not safe, then who is? If a woman in power is ridiculed for speaking up, then what happens to the girl on the street, the woman in the workplace, the child in a classroom?

    Read Also: I slept in Dangote cement factory on Senator Natasha’s wedding day – Akpabio

    “Good men, where are you? Men with voices, influence, power and integrity must do something. We cannot keep looking away. We cannot let injustice become a culture. We cannot let our daughters inherit a world where their voices are drowned out by mockery, where their pain is entertainment, and where their dignity is negotiable.

    “This is not a fight for women alone. This is a call to men. To raise daughters who won’t turn to prostitution and sons who will shun the call of wisdom for illegal wealth. To fathers, to brothers, to leaders, to all who claim to stand for truth. We must do better. Listen to this piece. I hope it stirs something in you. Let it remind you that silence is not neutrality—it is complicity.”

    The actor’s statement comes amidst a lawsuit filed by Mrs. Unoma Akpabio against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, following the allegations made against Senate President Akpabio.

  • Akpoti-Uduaghan: Law firm disowns trending letter on social media

    Akpoti-Uduaghan: Law firm disowns trending letter on social media

    A legal firm, Indemnity Partners, has distanced itself from a letter circulating on social media, which falsely claims to have been issued by the firm regarding Mrs. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Alema of Warri, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan.

    In a statement signed by B.C. Igwilo, SAN, the firm clarified that it did not author or release the said letter.

    “We are solicitors for Mrs. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan,” the statement read, urging the public to disregard the document entirely.

    ‘’We categorically distance ourselves from the purported letter and its alleged contents. The letter is inauthentic and of dubious origin”, the statement said.

    The law firm cautioned the public against spreading such misinformation, warning that disseminating fake news could have serious consequences.

  • Involving your wife in Natasha’s feud disingenuous, Akeredolu’s wife tells Akpabio

    Involving your wife in Natasha’s feud disingenuous, Akeredolu’s wife tells Akpabio

    Betty Akeredolu, wife of the late former Ondo Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, has criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio for involving his wife in his ongoing dispute with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it “highly disingenuous.”

    In a post on her official X handle, Akeredolu condemned Akpabio’s handling of the situation, stating that in more advanced democracies, he would have stepped down to clear his name rather than shifting responsibility.

    Reacting to the controversy over the reassignment of Senator Natasha’s seat without her consent, Akeredolu described the act as improper, disrespectful, and a clear violation of her rights.

    She praised Natasha for speaking out against the injustice, noting that in the past, male senators had chosen to remain silent in similar situations.

    She wrote: “In more civilised climes, Akpabio would have, by now, stepped down from office to clear his name and fight his battle. Drafting his wife to fight Senator Natasha is highly disingenuous and an attempt to dodge the bullets thereby throwing his wife under the bus. Dem miss road be dat!

    “Back to the crux of the matter.

    “In the first instance, reassigning seats without one’s knowledge is wrong! It’s disrespectful and infringes on one’s right.

    Read Also: Natasha: No petition about sexual harassment before Senate, says spokesman

    “Even if it had been done in the past and men for what ever reason, cowardly, decided to keep mute, but a bold Natasha, belled the cat by saying in an unequivocal terms, that it was wrong and we took notice. A wrong approach can be corrected no matter how long it had been applied. That’s the argument.

    “Some unserious women are talking “cho cho cho” blaming Natasha for being sentimental, and that has been Natasha’s way. What a pointless argument!. Natasha voiced her frustration, “having endured a lot”, according to her. That’s courage! That’s the kind of women we should support to represent us at the national assembly.

    “Nigerian women have been so mistreated and overpowered in all spheres of life and consequently, cowed into silence. Is it not a BIG SHAME that Nigeria has only 4 female senators out of 107?  

    Akeredolu also pointed out the underrepresentation of women in the Senate, highlighting that out of 109 senators, only four are women. 

    She praised Natasha for her courage, comparing her to Rosa Parks and calling on Nigerian women to support her fight for representation.

    “We sure needed Natasha’s outburst for the country to take a second look at the National assembly to know what is happening in those chambers.

    “Not a few Nigerians believe that our interests are not represented at the National Assembly tagging it as a retirement home which calls for an overhaul. Like Rosa Park, Natasha is on the part to making history. Nigerian women should rally round her.

    “We need more of her type come next dispensation. Good girls don’t get corner office, according Millie Odiambo, the popular Kenyan female legislator.

  • Adeola, Natasha felicitate Nigerians at New Year

    Adeola, Natasha felicitate Nigerians at New Year

    Senators Solomon Adeola and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have felicitated with Nigerians to mark the New Year celebrations.

    Adeola (APC-Ogun West), who is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Senate Committee on Appropriations through a statement signed by his Media Aide, Chief Kayode Odunaro, in Abuja extended his warm wishes to the all the good people of his constituency and Nigerians at large.

    He expressed optimism that the year 2025 will be far better than the outgone year for his constituents and Nigerians stressing that with the ongoing Renewed Hope Agenda Reform that are beginning to yield positive fruits, a sustainable and bearable socioeconomic circumstances beckons in the new year.

    He pledged to serve the nation and his constituents diligently in all areas as he is noted for doing in time past, adding that the year will yet again witness massive empowerment for his constituents and others.

    The Appropriations chairman urged all Nigerians to pray for more wisdom for all leaders stressing that his wish and pray for peace, security and socioeconomic advancement for the people and nation of Nigeria.

    On her part, Senator Akpoti-Udhaughan, urged Nigerians to embrace 2025 with a renewed sense of optimism, hope, and collective resolve to build a brighter future.

    She emphasised the importance of unity, resilience, and faith in the face of challenges, while urging citizens to reflect on the past year’s triumphs and trials.

    She equally encouraged Nigerians to seize the opportunity to chart a progressive path forward, one that prioritises inclusivity, innovation, and sustainable development.

    “This New Year is not just a change in the calendar; it is a time for us to reaffirm our commitment to building the Nigeria we all dream of—a nation where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

    “Despite the hurdles we may have faced, I am confident in the indomitable spirit of Nigerians and our capacity to overcome any obstacle,”Akpoti-Uduaghan said.

    Read Also: 10 major takeaways from Tinubu’s 2025 New Year speech

    Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan highlighted key milestones achieved in the past year, particularly in the areas of governance, women’s empowerment, education, and infrastructural development.

    She noted that while progress has been made, much work remains to be done to address issues such as poverty, unemployment, and insecurity.

    “As leaders, we must ensure that every Nigerian feels the impact of government policies in their daily lives.

    “We must work tirelessly to foster peace, provide opportunities for the youth, and protect the vulnerable in our society,” she noted.

    The Kogi lawmaker also reiterated the importance of unity across political, ethnic, and religious lines.

    She stressed that collaboration among citizens, leaders, and institutions is essential to achieving lasting development.

    “Our diversity is our strength. Let us use this New Year as a chance to bridge divides and come together with a shared vision for progress. Only by working hand in hand can we unlock Nigeria’s full potential,” she remarked.

    Addressing the youth, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan urged everyone to play their part in nation-building.

    She admonished young Nigerians to be proactive and innovative, to channel their energy into ventures that uplift themselves and their communities.

    “To the women, who are the bedrock of our families and communities, I say: your voice matters, your contributions matter. Let us continue to break barriers and pave the way for future generations,” she added.

    Concluding her message, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed her unwavering hope for Nigeria’s future.

    She affirmed her commitment to serving the people with integrity, transparency, and dedication in the coming year.

    “As we step into 2025, let us do so with hearts full of hope and determination. Together, we can create a nation where peace, prosperity, and progress reign supreme,” she said.

  • Natasha partners PM4success to train 100 constituents in digital skills

    Natasha partners PM4success to train 100 constituents in digital skills

    The lawmaker representing Kogi Central senatorial district at the red chamber, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has partnered with PM4success International to train 100 constituents in digital skills, valued at $200 each.

    This was disclosed on Thursday when the Managing Director and Program Manager of the Company, Dr. David Emumena and Engr. Bashiru Unuagbokhe respectively visited the lawmaker at her office in Abuja.

    Read Also: Rivers crisis: Senator Natasha seeks Tinubu’s intervention over Wike, Fubara’s feud

    According to a Statement by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s media aide, Arogbonlo Israel, in Abuja, the Managing Director disclosed that they are partnering with Senator to train 100 of her constituents on in-demand digital skills to gain global and industry-relevant certifications for self-reliance and financial independence.

    The statement added that the courses will be offered to the beneficiaries for free, and relevant certifications will be awarded at the end of their training.

    The career courses include; Full Stack Development, Data Engineering, Back-End Development, Front-End Development, DevOps Engineering, iOS Development, Android Development, Network Engineering, Data Warehouse Development, Network Engineering, Cloud Support Associate, UX Design, Application Development, Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, among others.

  • JUST IN: Akpabio apologises to Natasha Akpoti over ‘night club’ remark

    JUST IN: Akpabio apologises to Natasha Akpoti over ‘night club’ remark

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has apologised to Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi Central, over some remarks he made.

    Recall last week, Akpabio had told Akpoti-Uduaghan not to speak like she was in a “night club” during a Senate session.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan had spoken without being recognised by the Senate president.

    The Senate was in session when Akpabio said those in favour of the second reading of a bill to say ‘Aye’, while those against should say ‘Nay’.

    Read Also: Reps minority caucus advocates political solution to end Nnamdi Kanu’s detention

    The ‘Nay’ response came the loudest and as the Senate president contemplated his next action, Akpoti-Uduaghan rose to explain why she and some others were against the second reading of the proposal.

    “Mr President, we don’t want it to be killed. We just want a bit of modification. We don’t want the bill killed but there should be slight modification.”

    Responding to her, Akpabio said: “You see Senator Natasha, in the chamber, you have to be recognized before you speak. We’re not in a nightclub.”

    However, Akpabio has said his “night club” remark was reported out of context.

    Speaking on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday, the Senate President said: “We are still learning, even those of us who have been in the Senate for 16 years, we are still learning.

    “But in the cause of speaking with one of my distinguished sisters on not speaking when not recognized, I made reference to the fact that we are not in a nightclub where people have to shout above the noise of the music.

    “The social media went agog, my wife called me that they published her number and she received around 2,000 to 3,000 calls per day.

    “I’m happy with the interest generated by Nigerians with what goes on in this chamber because we are here for their interest.

    “The communication was totally misunderstood, instead of making meaning with what we said, they went into private abuse; I don’t want to say what they did to me.

    “I will not intentionally denigrate any woman, I have a wife and four daughters and I always pray that God will lift a girl to the highest zenith in Nigeria politically and in business. So Senator Natasha I want to apologize to you if you felt offended.

    “There is nothing I will say that would not be misrepresented, I felt I should tender a public apology to you.”

  • Senator Natasha flags off construction of new schools in Kogi Central

    Senator Natasha flags off construction of new schools in Kogi Central

    Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central senatorial district, on Sunday, June 2, flagged off the construction of new schools in Osara for the Hausa/Fulani community.

    A statement issued by her

    Chief Press Secretary Arogbonlo IsraelIsrael, revealed that the senator equally flagged off the reconstruction and remodeling of Abdul Azeez Atta Memorial College, Okene (AAAMCO). 

    The senator mentioned that the reconstruction and remodeling of AAAMCO aims to elevate the school to one of the most advanced secondary schools in Nigeria.

    The reconstruction project includes the complete renovation and upgrade of all deteriorated structures within the school. It also involves the construction of new facilities such as a Biology laboratory, Agronomy laboratory, Mechatronics laboratory, CBT centre, amphitheatre, music studio, art and craft studio, staff quartres, sports centre, as well as the provision of furniture and equipment for all the new facilities. 

    Additionally, a 0.7 km road network within the school premises, perimeter fencing, streetlights, water supply, and total rehabilitation of the hostels are part of the project. The school will also be upgraded to a smart school with electrified classrooms and digital learning devices for every student.

    AAAMCO is one of the first secondary schools in Northern Nigeria established in 1927 as the Central School Okene before changing its name to Provincial Secondary School Okene, after which it became Government Secondary School Okene and lastly AAAMCO. 

    This institution schools President Ibrahim Babangida, Professor Jerry Gana, Professor Lai Mohammed, Alhaji Babagana Kingibe amongst many notable alumni. 

    The lawmaker also mentioned that similar attention would be given to other schools in the senatorial district in a bid to them into smart schools.

    Furthermore, Sen. Akpoti-Uduaghan flagged off the construction of primary and secondary schools in Osara for the Hausa/Fulani community, fulfilling her campaign promises to them. 

    Read Also: NLC, TUC picket fed, state secretariats, Assembly in Anambra

    Once completed, the new schools in Osara will include blocks for primary and secondary schools, administrative buildings, libraries and laboratories, staff quarters, a clinic, sports facilities, and boreholes.

    According to her, the reconstruction and the remodelling was approved by the federal government. 

    “Education is extremely important. I wouldn’t have been here if there was no school for my father to acquire an education and give me the best education I have. 

    She added that similar attention would be given to other schools in the senatorial district, promising to remodel them into smart schools.

    In same vein, the senator said the flag off of primary and secondary schools in Osara for Hausa/Fulani community is a fulfilment of her campaign promises to them and an answer to their request when they met with her before the 2023 senatorial election. 

    Speaking on behalf of Hausa/Fulani community, the Youth leader, Miyetti Allah Kogi State chapter, Dr Nuhu Abubakar Jalido, said the gesture is an opportunity for Hausa/Fulani children to have access to quality education at their doorstep.  

    “This is the first time a senator in Kogi is building primary and secondary schools with the necessary facilities in a Hausa/Fulani camp. Your actions show you are different. This will change our people’s ideology and enable them to acquire quality education and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development,” he said.

  • UPDATED: Appeal Court affirms Natasha Akpoti as Kogi Central Senator

    UPDATED: Appeal Court affirms Natasha Akpoti as Kogi Central Senator

    The Court of Appeal in Abuja, has affirmed the judgment of the National and State Houses of Assembly Election Tribunal, which declared Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as the validly elected Senator representing Kogi State Central Senatorial District.

    In a judgment on Tuesday, a three-member panel of the appellate court, also affirmed the tribunal’s nullification of Abubakar Sadiku-Ohere of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who was earlier returned by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the winner of the election.

    In the unanimous judgment, read by Justice Hamma Barka, the court held, among others, that Sadiku-Ohere failed to provide convincing evidence why the judgment of the tribunal should be reversed.

    The appellate court, while dismissing Sadiku-Ohere’s appeal, was of the view that INEC, saddled with the responsibilities of conducting elections and collating the results, failed to provide reasons why the results of the elections in some Local Government Areas (LGAs) were rejected and excluded from the overall results announced after the conduct of the last National Assembly election in Kogi Central.

    Read Also: Lamentations of a loser

    INEC declared Sadiku-Ohere winner of the February 25, senatorial election, a decision Akpoti-Uduaghan appealed before the tribunal on the grounds that INEC failed to input results from Ajaokuta, Adavi and Okehi Local Government Areas, where she scored more votes.

    The tribunal held in her favour and sacked Sadiku-Ohere, prompting the APC candidate to appeal to the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

    The court also dismissed the appeal filed by INEC against the tribunal judgment.

    It held that the appeal by INEC was of no utilitarian value and a mere waste of judicial time.

    The court held that such an appeal from INEC, supporting a particular candidate, should be discouraged,.

    It further held that INEC ought to be an unbiased arbiter and proceeded to award N500,000 cost against the electoral umpire.