Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has responded to former governor Yahaya Bello, urging him to focus on addressing the ongoing corruption charges against him rather than pursuing efforts to have her recalled from the Senate.
Her statement, issued on Wednesday, expressed gratitude to her constituents for their unwavering support despite the challenges she faces.
The former governor is currently standing trial for alleged involvement in an N80.2 billion fraud, a case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s comments came in response to remarks from the Kogi State Government, which dismissed her claim that Bello and Senate President Godswill Akpabio attempted to assassinate her as a “malicious” falsehood.
The senator maintained that she would not be intimidated or swayed by attempts at blackmail.
“I advise the former governor to concentrate on clearing his name regarding the allegations of embezzling N80.2 billion, rather than trying to destabilize the mandate entrusted to me by the people of Kogi Central,” she stated.
“I will continue to serve my people and will not betray their trust.”
She further criticized the former governor, highlighting his history of attacks against her during the last general elections.
“His actions, both before and during the elections, including his sponsorship of attacks on me, are well-documented,” she said.
“This recall effort is just another attempt to undermine the will of the people.
It’s evident that my popularity in my constituency remains strong, despite efforts to suppress it.
The people have spoken – no to injustice, no to a fraudulent recall, and no to Yahaya Bello and his allies.”