“This calculated assault appears to be a direct response to my stance against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.” — Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
The recent armed attack on the Kogi home of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked widespread concern over the safety of outspoken lawmakers, the weaponization of political rivalry, and the shrinking space for dissent in Nigeria’s democratic framework.
As security agencies investigate, questions linger: Is this a case of political intimidation? Or a sign of deeper governance failures in Nigeria?
What Happened?
On Tuesday, April 15, unidentified gunmen attacked Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s family home in Obeiba-Ihima, Okehi LGA, Kogi State, allegedly mistaking her for being on-site. The windows of her grandfather’s house were vandalised before the assailants were repelled by civil defence operatives and community members.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the attack two days later, stating that investigations were ongoing and no arrests had been made.
What Natasha Said
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, currently under suspension from the Senate, directly linked the attack to her ongoing confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, whom she had accused of sexual harassment and abuse of power.
“This calculated assault appears to be a direct response to my courageous stance… My security details were withdrawn shortly after I went public with my accusations,” she said in a press statement.
She further noted that her younger brother and project contractors were in Ihima the day before the attack to inspect development sites—possibly triggering the gunmen’s assumptions about her presence.
What the Police Say
Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye told NAN that the command had been briefed and that efforts were underway to uncover the perpetrators. While no arrests have been made, the Commissioner assured the public that the force would “deal with those criminal elements.”
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) William Ayah was unreachable for comment at the time of this report.
The Bigger Picture: Political Violence & Democratic Fragility
This attack is not an isolated case. Over the last decade, Nigeria has seen a worrying rise in:
- Politically motivated violence
- Targeting of opposition figures
- Suppression of women in politics
- State-level security manipulation
Senator Natasha’s case is especially concerning because it combines all four. Her high-profile activism, gender, and confrontation with powerful figures place her at a dangerous intersection of Nigeria’s most volatile political flashpoints.
Why This Matters for Nigeria’s Democracy
- Intimidation of Lawmakers Sets a Dangerous Precedent
If elected officials are not safe from violence or harassment, democracy is under siege. - Women in Politics Face Higher Risks
Gender-based violence—verbal or physical—remains a major barrier to female political participation. - Security Withdrawal as a Silencing Tool
The call for reinstating Natasha’s security details underscores the risk of using state resources to punish dissent.
What’s Next?
- Will the Inspector General of Police order a thorough probe?
- Will the National Assembly condemn the attack?
- Will the federal government ensure equal protection for all lawmakers—regardless of party or politics?
These are the questions on the lips of Nigerians and democracy watchers worldwide.
Bottom Line
The attack on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s home is not just a security breach—it’s a democratic red flag. Nigeria’s institutions must act swiftly to protect its lawmakers, especially those bold enough to speak truth to power.
