Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has boldly stated her position. She declared herself a formidable challenge to former Governor Yahaya Bello. She referred to herself as his “political nightmare.”
The lawmaker made these remarks on Saturday. She was a guest on the Mic On Podcast. There, she openly declared her fearlessness towards Mr. Bello.
Discussing her senatorial ambitions, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was direct. She challenged the former governor. “If I choose to be on the ballot,” she stated, “and ex-Governor Yahaya Bello is also there, then I say, bring it on.” She added, “Scared of who? He is not my nightmare. Rather, I am his political nightmare.”
She also spoke about her constituency projects. Reports suggested Senate President Godswill Akpabio removed some. She addressed these claims directly.
Her response was brief. “I said someone removed my projects,” she affirmed.
Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan also commented on the 2027 elections. She downplayed any plans to contest for the state’s governorship. This suggests her focus lies elsewhere.
Natasha clarified her political future. She is currently in discussions with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, she would only consider a gubernatorial race after family and stakeholder consultations.
She explained her outlook. “I am not even promised tomorrow,” she stated. “If I am blessed to experience the 2027 election, I might vie for the Senate again.”
This Senate ambition is her current focus within the PDP. Yet, her decision is not final. She emphasized the need for her husband’s and family’s full support.
She added, “If my husband gives his consent, I will take that step.” Regarding the 2027 governorship, she remained non-committal. “I don’t know,” she said, “and I would prefer not to discuss it.”
Finally, Natasha firmly rejected any defection rumours. She dismissed the possibility of leaving the PDP. Joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not in her plans.