Abuja, Nigeria – In a major political development, constituents from Kogi Central Senatorial District have initiated a recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. A petition bearing over 250,000 signatures was submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday, March 24, 2025, signaling a potential shift in the region’s political landscape.
The petition, led by Charity Ijoshe Omole, was filed by a group known as Concerned Kogi Youth and Women. In a statement during the submission, Omole cited “gross misconduct” and the senator’s suspension from the National Assembly as the primary reasons behind the recall move.
Massive Support for Recall Petition
According to reports, the recall petition secured over 250,000 signatures out of approximately 480,000 registered voters in Kogi Central. Under Nigerian law, a recall requires the support of at least 50% plus one of registered voters in a constituency before it can proceed.
Speaking on the development, Omole emphasized the urgency of the recall process, stating:
“We have lost confidence in her because of her gross misconduct that led to her suspension in the Senate, leaving Kogi Central without representation.”
If validated, the petition could lead to a full recall election, where voters would decide whether Akpoti-Uduaghan remains in office or is removed.
Court Order Stops INEC from Acting on Petition
Despite the submission of the recall petition, a Federal High Court in Lokoja had earlier issued an interim injunction restraining INEC from accepting or acting on any recall process against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The court, presided over by Justice Abdulmalik Muhammad, ruled on March 20, 2025, that INEC must halt any recall actions pending a full hearing on the matter. The senator’s legal team argued that the process might have been compromised, with concerns about the authenticity of some signatures. The next court hearing is scheduled for May 6, 2025.
Mixed Reactions from Constituents and Stakeholders
The recall attempt has sparked mixed reactions across Kogi State and beyond. While some residents view it as a necessary step toward accountability, others believe it is politically motivated.
Supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan argue that she is being targeted unfairly. A Change.org petition titled “Stand for Justice: Reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan & Defend Democracy” has gathered over 5,500 signatures, urging INEC and the Nigerian government to protect her from what they describe as a “politically driven recall.”
Meanwhile, political analysts believe the outcome of this case could set a precedent for future recall processes in Nigeria.
Implications for Democracy in Nigeria
The recall process against Akpoti-Uduaghan underscores the significance of citizen engagement in governance. If successful, it will mark one of the rare instances in Nigeria’s democratic history where a senator is removed through a recall process.
However, the controversy surrounding the petition raises critical questions about the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral and judicial processes. Observers argue that the INEC’s handling of this petition and the court’s final decision will be a major test for the country’s democratic institutions.
As legal proceedings continue, all eyes will be on the judiciary and electoral commission to determine the fate of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the political future of Kogi Central Senatorial District.
