Kogi PDP elders demand apology from Natasha over endorsement

The Peoples Democratic Party elders in Kogi East have voiced strong opposition to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's alleged interference in their internal political affairs. Their statement, issued by spokesperson Alhaji Ibrahim Dansofo, condemned her visit to Idah and her purported endorsement of Idris Kashim for the Kogi East Senate ticket. The elders described this action as a "reckless subversion" of party democracy and an insult to the leadership of Kogi East, particularly criticizing it as an attempt to introduce "political imposition" into the Igala political space.

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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.

According to the statement, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan's visit was seen as a calculated move to create crisis within the Igala political system. The elders emphatically stated that "Kogi Central cannot decide for Kogi East" and that it is an "insult of the highest order" for a senator from another district to bypass local elders and attempt to crown a candidate. They highlighted that the party has two major aspirants, Idris Hussein Kashim and Alhaji Muhammad ‘Elephant’ Abdullahi, and consultations were ongoing for a consensus candidate.

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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.

The council further alleged that the senator's conduct showed "utter disrespect" for the process and for Alhaji Abdullahi, a key party figure. They characterized her actions as a "gross violation of political etiquette." The elders also suggested that Akpoti-Uduaghan's actions were driven by a desire to build influence for her rumored gubernatorial ambitions, calling it a "dangerous game of interference that will only backfire."

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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.

In conclusion, the Kogi East elders reiterated their demand for an immediate and unreserved apology. They advised Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to focus on her constituents in Kogi Central and leave the affairs of Kogi East to its own people, warning against any further "meddling."

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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.