The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has declared that Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, and former Governor Yahaya Bello should be held responsible if violence disrupts her scheduled homecoming for the Sallah celebrations.

The lawmaker, who stated that she is looking forward to a peaceful homecoming, made this known in a post on her verified Facebook account on Tuesday.

She wrote, “My dear people of Kogi Central, I look forward to our PEACEFUL Sallah celebrations today. However, should we be met with or infiltrated by violence, Nigerians should hold Gov Òdodo, Yahaya Bello & SP Godswill Akpabio wholly responsible.”

Despite speculations that she had cancelled her visit, Natasha reaffirmed her commitment to returning to her constituency for the Sallah break.

In a statement issued by her media team on Tuesday, she dismissed the rumours and called on her supporters to turn out in large numbers.

“We are pleased to confirm that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sallah visit to Kogi Central Senatorial District will proceed as planned,” the statement read. “Despite rumours circulating online, there has been no official announcement from our office regarding the cancellation of this visit.”

The senator, who emphasised her statutory role in representing her constituents, expressed her eagerness to engage with them during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

“As the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan remains committed to engaging with her community and fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation,” the statement continued. “Her dedication to the people of Kogi Central is unwavering, and she looks forward to celebrating Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents.

“We would like to assure the public that all necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a successful and joyous event. We invite all members of the community to join us in marking this special occasion.”

Her planned visit comes just hours after the Kogi State Government imposed a ban on rallies and public gatherings, citing security concerns.

The government also restricted fishing and certain other activities, following the reported deaths of two individuals in Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette in Kogi Local Government Area. (Nigerian Tribune)