Determined voters in Kogi Central Senatorial District have vowed to press on with their bid to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from office, despite the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recent position on the matter.
In a statement on Thursday, Salihu Habib, speaking on behalf of the group, reiterated that the campaign would not be abandoned.
They expressed appreciation to INEC for confirming that 208,132 signatures—43.86% of registered voters—had been validated.
The development comes after INEC noted procedural flaws in the recall petition, stating on its X handle that the submission did not fulfil constitutional requirements.
MCC had reported that INEC announced its decision on X stating: “The petition for the recall of the Senator representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).”
However, the constituents argued that they had mobilized more than the legally required 50% plus one of the electorate and had submitted comprehensive documentation.
They viewed INEC’s validation of 43.86% as evidence that Akpoti-Uduaghan no longer enjoyed the support of her people.
“INEC removed at least 35,000 signatures on administrative grounds,” they claimed. “We will continue to engage with the commission transparently, ensuring due process is followed.”
The group also dismissed allegations that their figures were fabricated, asserting, “We appreciate INEC for confirming that our movement is legitimate and that we did not rely on an artificially gathered crowd, unlike a struggling lawmaker.”
The petitioners accused the senator of engaging in divisive politics and insisted that her recall was imperative.
“We remain steadfast in our resolve to bring honourable and cooperative representation to Kogi Central,” the statement added.
“We will not support anyone who resorts to manipulative tactics to stay in power.”
Referring to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent rally, they alleged that her comments could incite unrest.
“The entire country witnessed her reckless statements, which could ignite chaos beyond Kogi State,” they asserted.
The group concluded by reaffirming their commitment to lawful actions, declaring, “We will not relent in ensuring our collective voice is respected. After God, power belongs to the people.”