Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi central, has defied security restrictions imposed on Kogi state hours to her homecoming rally.
The lawmaker, who arrived in a chopper on Tuesday, was received by a jubilant crowd in Okehi local government area.
Her return comes after the Kogi state government banned public gatherings and rallies over alleged security concerns.
Amoka Monday, chairman of Okehi LGA, had also declared a curfew across the council area.
“Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I’m an Ebira person; this is my land,” she said in Ebira language.
“I’m the daughter of the late Jimoh Abdul Akpoti. I know my roots; I’m not a bastard, and I’m not afraid of anybody.”
Her arrival follows a warning from the Kogi police command urging her to cancel a planned Eid-el-Fitr celebration rally in the district.
However, her media team dismissed any speculation about a cancellation, maintaining that the visit would proceed as planned.
Before her return, the senator had alleged that any violence during the event should be blamed on Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Usman Ododo, governor of Kogi state, and Yahaya Bello, the former governor of the state.
“My dear people of Kogi Central, I look forward to our peaceful Sallah celebrations today,” she wrote on Facebook.
“However, should we be met with or infiltrated by violence, Nigerians should hold Gov Ododo, Yahaya Bello & SP Godswill Akpabio wholly responsible.”
Despite the security concerns and government restrictions, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return was met with widespread celebrations, as supporters gathered to welcome the lawmaker back to her hometown.
