The Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has thrown in the towel and accepted a recent Appeal Court decision that confirms Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as the legitimate candidate for the Kogi Central Senatorial District. This unexpected twist comes after a heated and long-standing feud between Bello and Akpoti, two personalities who’ve never seen eye to eye.
Bello, known for his iron grip on Kogi and his fearless disposition, met his match in Natasha Akpoti. Despite being a woman, she displayed unwavering strength and determination akin to a man. Even in the face of alleged election manipulations earlier this year, Akpoti stood her ground, fought the battle, and emerged victorious. It’s quite the spectacle!
Governor Bello, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), offered his congratulations to Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as well as everyone involved in the democratic process. Speaking from the Aso Villa, Bello called upon all Kogi State residents to embrace the court’s verdict.
The recent Court of Appeal ruling in Abuja solidified Akpoti-Uduaghan’s status as the rightful winner of the Kogi Central Senatorial Election held in February. The court decisively dismissed an appeal filed by Abubakar Ohere, deeming it lacking in merit.
To add some context to Akpoti’s tenacity, she gained national prominence when she presented an investigative report to the National Assembly in March 2018, shedding light on corruption related to the Ajaokuta steel mill. Her report exposed a pattern of wasteful government spending and embezzlement dating back to the mill’s construction. Notably, the report faced opposition from the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, accusing Akpoti of deliberately misleading the House of Representatives. An association of small-scale steel dealers also alleged a sponsored campaign to discredit the government and favour certain corporate interests. A high court in Abuja later ordered substantial damages to be paid to Akpoti for libelous publications against her.
Natasha Akpoti’s victory is not just a personal triumph but a symbol of empowerment for every girl out there. Her story serves as a reminder that the only barrier one faces is often self-imposed. A woman to be celebrated and admired – A woman we stan
