Kogi Central Constituents Petition INEC to Recall Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

Babatunji Wusu –

• Recall Petition Filed: Constituents of Kogi Central have reportedly submitted a petition to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) seeking the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

• Legal Process: A recall requires signatures from over 50% of registered voters, followed by verification and, if needed, a referendum. The process must be completed within 90 days.

• Reason for Recall: Petitioners argue that the district requires active representation in the Senate.

• Senate Suspension: Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for “gross misconduct” after a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements.

• Sexual Harassment Allegation: Her suspension followed accusations she made against Akpabio, claiming he had sexually harassed her.

Members of the Kogi Central constituency have submitted a petition to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), seeking to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate. The move comes in response to her recent suspension and concerns over the district’s representation.

Under Nigerian law, a recall process requires a petition signed by more than 50% of registered voters in the constituency. INEC must then verify the signatures and, if necessary, conduct a referendum. The process must be completed within 90 days of receiving the petition.

Speaking on behalf of the petitioners, Charity Omole emphasized the urgency of having an active senator. “We cannot afford to be without representation in the Senate,” she stated.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended from the Senate on March 6 over allegations of “gross misconduct” following a confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding seating arrangements. Her suspension came just days after she publicly accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.

As the recall petition progresses, further developments are expected. More details to come…