Kogi Group Warns Obi-Kwankwaso Movement Over EFCC Petition Against Natasha

A group, the Kogi Central Progressive Elite, has condemned the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement over its call for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the cash empowerment programme organised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing the move as a desperate political ploy to undermine her rising influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group, which accused the movement of pursuing a politically motivated agenda, said the agitation was driven by individuals uncomfortable with the senator’s growing popularity and acceptance among constituents.

In a statement issued by its president, Abdullahi Omeiza, the group faulted attempts to portray the empowerment programme as vote-buying, insisting that there was no established evidence to support the allegation.

It maintained that legitimate constituency interventions, including financial assistance to beneficiaries, should not be criminalised merely because they were undertaken by a serving elected representative.

While acknowledging the need for accountability among public office holders, the group cautioned against using anti-corruption agencies as instruments of political intimidation.

It stressed that allegations should not be treated as proof of guilt, adding that any investigation into the matter must be based on credible evidence and conducted in accordance with due process.

The Progressive Elite further declared that the constituents were satisfied with Akpoti-Uduaghan’s representation, citing her legislative engagements, grassroots connections and empowerment initiatives as evidence of her commitment to public service.

It said the senator’s political standing should be determined by the people she represents rather than pressure groups or what it described as opposition-sponsored narratives.

The group also dismissed threats by political opponents to mobilise against her return to the National Assembly, challenging them to present credible alternatives, verifiable achievements and a convincing development agenda.

According to the group, the opposition’s concentration on personal attacks against the senator, rather than constructive engagement on development issues, would not serve the interests of Kogi Central.

Expressing confidence in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political resilience, the group said she would not be distracted by the controversy but would remain focused on effective representation and the welfare of her constituents.

It urged her supporters to remain calm and united, while calling on political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and constructive engagement ahead of the 2027 elections.

The group maintained that the forthcoming general elections would provide the people of Kogi Central with the opportunity to assess the senator’s performance and determine her political future at the ballot box.

“The people have a voice, the people have a choice, and the people reserve the ultimate democratic mandate. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan must not be distracted from the responsibility of representing her people,” the statement said.