Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has revealed that she is under sustained pressure from individuals in the Presidency and other lawmakers to join the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), but she has consistently rebuffed these attempts.
Speaking in an interview on Saturday, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) senator confirmed she has no plans to defect to the APC.
She defended her stance, stating: “I was in APC briefly at the start of everything. Why should I go and join APC? I don’t have to follow the bandwagon. I don’t have to succumb to any threats or fall for any cajolery.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized her satisfaction with her current party and her commitment to maintaining her independence.
The senator disclosed that the approaches have been persistent and come from high-ranking officials, including those within the Presidency.
“I have been approached many times. I have been approached by people from the Presidency, from even my colleagues,” Persecondnews quotes her as saying.
“Even as recently as yesterday, one of my colleagues joked about her potential defection, saying, “We’re still expecting, we would love to have you.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan also discussed her political future, stating that discussions are ongoing within the PDP about a possible re-election bid in 2027.
She, however, said nothing has been decided, adding that she is taking her time to consider her options.
When asked about speculations that former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello may contest the Kogi Central senatorial seat in 2027, Akpoti-Uduaghan was unfazed.
“If by any chance I make up my mind after due consultation with my family, constituents and political party, and I am on the ballot against former Governor Yahaya Bello in 2027, then I would say, bring it on,” she said.
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