INEC receives petition for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall

A group of registered voters from Kogi Central Senatorial District has formally petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) demanding the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and loss of confidence.

The petition, dated March 21, 2025, and received by INEC on March 24, cites Section 69 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and INEC’s Guidelines for Recall Petitions as the legal basis for their action.

The constituents accuse the senator of “evasion of due process, deceitful behaviour, and actions that have embarrassed the constituency and tarnished the integrity of the Nigerian Senate.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was declared winner of the February 25, 2023, Kogi Central election after a Court of Appeal ruling on October 31, 2023.

However, the petitioners claim she has failed to meet their expectations, prompting the recall bid.

According to the petition, the signatories represent more than half of the registered voters in Kogi Central, a constitutional requirement to initiate a recall process.

INEC is yet to officially respond, but if verified, the commission will be obligated to commence procedures for a referendum in the senatorial district.

A copy of the petition

Supporters of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan have dismissed the petition as a “sponsored attempt” to undermine her representation.

INEC is expected to review the petition’s validity in the coming days, determining whether the recall process will proceed.

I can’t be intimidated -Natasha

Meanwhile, the embattled Senator has dismissed reports claiming she apologized to the Nigerian Senate over the controversy that led to her suspension.

In a statement on Monday, March 24, 2025, the lawmaker described the claims as “false and misleading,” reaffirming her stance on the issue that resulted in her six-month suspension.

“The reports suggesting that I have apologized to the Senate and retracted my position are completely untrue.

“I stand firmly by my words and actions and have not issued any apology to the Senate or anyone regarding this matter,” she stated.

She condemned those spreading the misinformation, accusing them of attempting to distort the truth and mislead the public.

The senator, who was suspended following a heated exchange with Senate leadership, maintained that she remains committed to her principles and the defense of her constituents’ rights.

She further alleged that certain individuals were trying to manipulate public perception with fabricated statements.

“I urge the public to disregard these rumors and publications as they do not represent my position. My commitment remains to truth, justice, and the people I represent.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan also expressed concerns over what she described as an orchestrated campaign to silence her voice in the National Assembly.

“This is not just about me; it is about the integrity of our democracy. I will not be intimidated or forced into submission through false narratives.”

She urged her constituents and Nigerians to remain vigilant against misinformation, emphasizing that any official statement from her would only come from her verified channels.

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