By Matthew Denis
Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has firmly dismissed recent allegations linking her to a supposed plot to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Addressing the claims, Akpoti-Uduaghan clarified that her relationship with the President is founded on mutual respect and driven by a shared commitment to national development.
The lawmaker’s response comes in light of accusations made by UK-based businesswoman Sandra Duru, who alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan was part of a plan to destabilize the Tinubu-led government by targeting Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a rebuttal, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the claims as baseless and politically motivated.
She said, “I have not made any statement against the President nor taken any action to discredit his administration.
“My background and upbringing do not support tribal or divisive politics, and I remain committed to the unity and progress of Nigeria.”
She revealed that her engagements with President Tinubu have always been constructive, particularly ahead of major national issues such as the proposed probe of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
According to the Senator, these meetings were necessary to brief the President and ensure a shared understanding of her legislative initiatives.
Akpoti-Uduaghan further suggested that her cordial relationship with the President may have unsettled certain individuals within the political establishment, including Senate President Akpabio.
She recounted an instance where Akpabio allegedly confronted her husband about her visits to the President, a reaction she believes stemmed from insecurity and personal interests.
She added: “The Senate President told my husband, ‘Are you aware that your wife goes to see the President?’ and my husband told him he was aware. I have not said this in public before, but I am saying it now.”
Despite ongoing tensions with Akpabio, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasised that her disagreement is personal and not an attack on the Senate, the Nigerian people, or the Presidency.
“I do not have a hostile relationship with the President, even though I am in the opposition. The good people of Kogi Central voted me to work, not to antagonise or create enmity,”
She reiterated.
She added that the public to disregard politically motivated distractions and reaffirmed her dedication to her legislative responsibilities and the service of her constituents.