Kogi PDP elders demand apology from Natasha over endorsement

The Kogi State Peoples Democratic Party Elders Council in Kogi East has called on Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to cease what it described as “unwarranted interference” in the political affairs of the Igala people.

The group also demanded an immediate and unreserved apology, insisting that the Igala people would manage their internal political affairs without external interference.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Alhaji Ibrahim Dansofo, the elders condemned the senator’s recent visit to Idah, where she reportedly endorsed Idris Kashim (Idrisima) for the Kogi East Senate ticket.

The council described the action as a “reckless subversion” of internal party democracy and an affront to the leadership of Kogi East.

Dansofo further criticised the endorsement as an attempt to introduce “political imposition,” which he said had become associated with Ebira politicians, into the Igala political space.

“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s journey to Idah was calculated to ferment crisis within the Igala political system. We want to make it categorically clear: Kogi Central cannot decide for Kogi East. It is an insult of the highest order for a Senator from another district to bypass our elders and attempt to crown a candidate in our domain,” the statement read.

The elders noted that the party currently has two major aspirants—Idris Hussein Kashim from Idah Federal Constituency and Alhaji Muhammad ‘Elephant’ Abdullahi from Ankpa Federal Constituency—adding that consultations were already ongoing to reach a consensus candidate in the interest of unity.

“By taking sides and endorsing Idrisima, Natasha has shown utter disrespect for the process and for Alhaji Abdullahi, who is a vital pillar of this party. Her conduct is unacceptable and a gross violation of political etiquette,” Dansofo added.

The council also alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions were politically motivated, claiming they were aimed at building influence ahead of her reported gubernatorial ambitions.

“We are well aware that this is not about the Senate ticket. Her desperation to plant stooges across the state to further her gubernatorial ambition is transparent. She is playing a dangerous game of interference that will only backfire,” the statement warned.

The elders, therefore, reiterated their demand for an immediate and unreserved apology, warning against further “meddling” in Kogi East affairs.

“As a woman and a representative of another district, her actions are considered a slap in the face of Kogi East elders. We advise her to focus on the people of Kogi Central who elected her and leave Kogi East to manage its own affairs,” it added.

The council urged party members in the region to remain calm, assuring that steps were being taken to ensure a democratic and unified process in selecting a candidate that reflects the interests of the Igala people.