In the early hours of Thursday, April 17, 2025, unknown gunmen attacked the family home of embattled Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in Obeiba-Ihima, Kogi State. The armed intruders, reportedly carrying guns and cutlasses, stormed the house around 1:00 a.m. and vandalized the building, including smashing its windows.
The senator’s Chief Security Officer, Yakubu Ovanja, promptly alerted authorities to the incident. Thankfully, security forces and community members quickly responded, successfully repelling the attackers. Although no lives were lost and no one sustained injuries, the incident has raised concerns over politically motivated violence and personal safety for outspoken lawmakers.
Senator’s Camp Confirms Attack
In an official statement shared with Naija News, the senator’s Chief Press Secretary, Arogbonlo Israel, confirmed the attack and strongly condemned the act of violence.
“We condemn the brazen attack on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s family house in Obeiba-Ihima, Kogi State, on Tuesday, April 15. Armed men, mistakenly believing the Senator was present, vandalized windows in her grandfather’s house. Fortunately, security operatives swiftly responded and repelled the attackers,” Israel stated.
He described the incident as a calculated act of intimidation and suggested it was retaliation for the senator’s recent confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier accused Akpabio of sexual harassment—a claim that has stirred public discourse and generated political backlash.
“This calculated assault appears to be a direct response to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s courageous stance against Senate President Godswill Akpabio,” Israel said. “We urge the Inspector General of Police to immediately reinstate her security details.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan Shares Her Version of Events
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, personally recounted the events surrounding the attack. She clarified that she was not in Kogi State at the time of the incident and believes the assailants may have acted on misinformation.
“Two days ago, my younger brother took some contractors to my hometown in Ihima to inspect locations for upcoming projects I attracted to my senatorial district,” she explained. “The unknown gunmen assumed I was the one in town and attacked my family house that night. Thankfully, the civil defense team and community members responded promptly and chased them off.”
According to the senator, a report has been filed with the police area command. She expressed gratitude that no one was harmed and commended the swift actions of the local security personnel.
Rising Political Tension and Safety Concerns
The attack comes at a time of increasing political strain following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public accusations against Senate President Akpabio. The senator’s claims of sexual harassment have divided public opinion and sparked debates over power dynamics within Nigeria’s political class.
While supporters commend her bravery and demand justice, critics question the timing and intent behind her allegations. Regardless of the divided opinions, this incident has escalated concerns about political retribution and threats to lawmakers who speak out.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s team maintains that the withdrawal of her security details shortly before the attack left her and her family vulnerable. They are calling on the Inspector General of Police to restore her protection and ensure her safety going forward.
Community Reaction and Public Support
Back in Obeiba-Ihima, the senator’s hometown, community members have shown solidarity with the embattled lawmaker. Residents who assisted in repelling the attackers expressed outrage and concern over the rising insecurity. They praised the civil defence corps for their quick response and condemned the use of violence to settle political grievances.
Civil society groups, particularly women’s advocacy organizations, have rallied behind the senator. Many view the attack as part of a broader pattern of harassment against women in politics and are demanding a full investigation into both the assault and her claims against Akpabio.
Broader Pattern of Intimidation in Nigerian Politics
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case is not an isolated one. Over the years, Nigeria has witnessed a disturbing rise in politically motivated attacks and intimidation, especially targeting vocal politicians. Female lawmakers often bear the brunt of such harassment, facing not only smear campaigns but also physical threats.
Analysts note that this pattern of violence poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy and undermines the participation of women in leadership roles. The attack on Akpoti-Uduaghan may further discourage women from entering or remaining in politics, especially when their safety cannot be guaranteed.
Calls for Action and Accountability
The senator’s camp is now demanding urgent action from law enforcement agencies. They are calling for an immediate investigation into the attack and for those responsible to be brought to justice. Additionally, they want clarity on why her security was withdrawn and assurances that such actions won’t be repeated.
Meanwhile, public pressure continues to mount on the Inspector General of Police to take decisive steps in ensuring that high-profile politicians are adequately protected, particularly those facing threats linked to their public statements or political positions.
Senator Remains Defiant
Despite the attack, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan remains resolute. She has vowed not to be silenced by fear or intimidation and reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the people of Kogi Central.
“My voice will not be drowned by fear,” she said. “I will continue to fight for what is right and ensure that the people of Kogi Central get the development they deserve.”
Conclusion
The recent attack on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s family home highlights the growing risks faced by politicians who challenge entrenched interests in Nigeria. As law enforcement agencies begin their investigation, the country watches closely—hoping for justice, accountability, and a renewed commitment to protecting the voices of truth and justice within the nation’s democratic framework.
If unchecked, politically motivated violence such as this will not only endanger individuals but also erode public confidence in the political system. Now more than ever, the nation must rise to protect those who dare to speak out.
