News
Natasha; Igbo Group Lauds Senate for Standing by Eye Witness Account Rendered by Deputy Chief Whip
By Our Reporter
Ohaneze Stakeholders Forum has commended the Nigerian Senate for the solidarity with Senate President, Godswill Akpabio over the refusal to probe the allegation of sex harassment against Senator Natasha , representing Kogi Central.
A statement released on Wednesday accused Kogi lawmaker of inadvertently trying to blackmail and discredit the Senate President.
According to the President and Secretary of OSF, Ikechuckwu Nwolisa and Okonkwo Chimdi lauded the Senate and Nigerians for standing by the Senate President on the allegation, describing it as an attempt to tar the hard earned image and integrity of the leaders of the National Assembly.
While acknowledging Senators and Nigerians for their firm stance, in line with justice and fairness, stating that their position of treating the allegation with ignominy was laudable.
Ohaneze Stakeholders Forum OSF accused Senator Natasha Akpoti- Uduaghan of fabricating falsehood, lies as her way of life and now against the Senate President, saying that she lack credibility and integrity.
For rehearsing an old worn out stories, Natasha had a premeditated plans to run down the good name already made by Senate President and Chairman of the National Assembly in his quest for nations building.
The body asked Senator Natasha to draw an advise from her elderly colleague, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa who opined the situation as pecuniary and unthinkable.
While describing Senator Natasha as controversial, the body gave an instance of her acceptance of Chairmanship of local content committee among many others and her attraction of five LNG project to Kogi state, saying she is always in the news foe wrong reasons .
“An Igbo group, Ohaneze Stakeholders Forum (OSF) has lambasted the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the Senate, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, over the allegation of sexual harassment she levelled against the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.”
“OSF in a press statement issued on Wednesday accused accused the Kogi federal lawmaker of peddling falsehood in order to blackmail and discredit the Senate President.”
“The group in the statement signed by its President, Ikechukwu Nwolisa and Secretary, Okonkwo Chimdi, however, hailed the Senate and Nigerians for standing solidly behind Akpabio in the unfolding premeditated grand designs to impugn the integrity of the leader of the National Assembly.”
“OSF said it was noteworthy that the senators and Nigerians stood by the truth, fairness and justice by treating the allegation against Akpabio with ignominy that it rightly deserved.”
“OSF said the latest antics of Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio showed that she lacked integrity and credibility, expressing concerns that Akpoti-Uduaghan was in the habit of notoriously fabricating falsehood and lies against accomplished male citizens in order to remain relevant and boost her dented image.”
“OSF said, “Akpoti-Uduaghan is merely “rehearsing an old, worn out stories, which she notoriously peddle against high-profile men to blackmail them. Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, is undoubtedly not the first to be so accused by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of sexually harassing her. For Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, accusing every man of wanting to sleep with her is now a slogan.”
“Just as Senator Florence Ita-Giwa said that that no right thinking distinguished senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would descend this low to blackmail a man for pecuniary gains. It is utterly despicable.”
“The questions begging for answers in the show of shame by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan are many. Why is Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan always in the news for wrong reasons? Why is she always alleging sexual harassment in order to trend in the public psyche? Is this the only option available to her to seek relevance? Her actions and public utterances are appalling and unbecoming of a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
“Why did she not cry wolves of being sexually harassed when she was made the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Content? Why did she accept the Chairmanship of the Local Content Committee from someone who was harassing her sexually? She ought to have rejected the appointment as a devlish ploy to lure and entice her into an unholy romantic journey with the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.”
“This controversial Senator didn’t also raise an alarm that she was being harassed sexually when she leveraged on her privileged position as chairperson of the Senate committee on Local Content to influence the location of five gas facilities at her state, Kogi state. It’s sad and more disturbing that her co-traveller in this journey to pull down the President of the Senate, Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, who is her husband, could not persuade his wife to site one of the gas facilities in his home state, Delta State, which is a major oil producing state.”
“She has to wait until she was removed as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Content in February 2025 apparently for misconduct and allocated another seat before she came to her senses that Akpabio requested for an amorous relationship with her in December 2023. Why wait for this long before appearing on the national television to spill the milk? It shows that her action was a pure blackmail.”
“We believe the Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Onyekachi Onwaebonyi that the story of sexual harassment was borne out of frustration of being removed as chairperson of the Grade A and lucrative Senate Committee on Local Content and nothing more. Having been removed, she decided to deploy her usual tactics by blackmailing the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio.”
“It’s her normal ways of life. Many prominent male citizens have become her victims- we can name them, former Governor Yahaya Bello, Senator Dino Melaye and and a former presidential aide, Reno Omokri. Possibly Senator Godswill Akpabio would not be the last man to be blackmailed by this desperate lady,” added OSF, in the statement.
Meanwhile, the Ohaneze group offered advice to the embattled Kogi Senator.
OSF counselled her to be creative and tactful going forward by initiating fresh ideas to achieve her goal of blackmailing innocent men.
The group said Nigerians are no longer cajoled by her old-fashioned stories of accusing innocent prominent Nigerian men of sexually harassing her.
“These tactics of pointing accusing fingers of sexual harassment at men who have disagreement with her is worn out and no longer giving her desired outcome. She should seek other ways of carrying out her trade of blackmailing men to advance her political career.”
OSF praised the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Onwaebonyi for his boldness and courage in giving true and authentic accounts of the senators’ attendance of Akpabio’s birthday ceremony in December 2023.
According to the group, Onwaebonyi’s accurate account of the sequence of events which took place during the Senate President’s birthday celebrations in Uyo and Ikot-Ekpene in December 2023 has put a lie to the accusation by Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“In that bold interview on the national television, Senator Onyekachi Onwaebonyi, the Senate Deputy Chief Whip, has ended the controversy generated by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s unwarranted vituperations. From the account of Senator Onwaebonyi, it was clear that Akpoti-Uduaghan was out to blackmail the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio and win undeserved public sympathy.”
“We advise that whoever misses the interview to look for the tape and listen to it in order to be better informed and arrive at rational judgement and draw incontrovertible conclusions,” the statement further stated.
By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
MY POLITICAL AMBITION IS ROOTED IN EMPOWERMENT AND UNITY NOT FOR PERSONAL GAINS:
My aspiration to serve in the political arena is fuelled by a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of everyday citizens. It’s not a quest for power, but a heartfelt mission to empower communities, foster transparent governance, and restore trust in political leadership. At the heart of this ambition lies a commitment to bridge the widening gap between elected representatives and the people they are meant to serve.
INSPIRING REASON BEHIND MY POLITICAL PURSUIT:
The core of my political journey is anchored in a passion for empowerment. Our people are brimming with potential, yet countless individuals remain unheard and unsupported. I believe it is time for a new chapter one where citizens are empowered to pursue their aspirations and actively participate in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.
My candidacy is driven by a yearning for a more inclusive political culture one that brings everyone to the table, regardless of social or economic background. True leadership is not about command but about collaboration, and I intend to be a voice that listens, includes, and acts in the interest of all.
There is a dire need to close the disconnect between political officeholders and the people. Too often, promises are made during campaigns but forgotten after elections. I am determined to break that cycle by fostering open dialogue, being accessible, and ensuring my actions in office reflect the real needs of my constituents.
WHY I CHOSE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE NOT THE SENATE:
Many have asked why I am pursuing a seat in the House of Representatives rather than the Senate. My answer is rooted in strategic thinking and the existing political dynamics within our constituency. The House provides a more direct platform to engage with grassroots issues and bring tangible development to our communities.
Additionally, a long-standing gentleman’s agreement between Jaba and Zango Kataf Local Government Areas (LGAs) underpins this choice. The House of Representatives seat has historically rotated between these areas, and upholding this understanding is vital for political balance and peace.
Moreover, within the Zango Kataf LGA (ZKLGA), there is a pressing need for a similar agreement between the six wards and five wards, to ensure fair representation. My decision to run is aligned with this vision of equity and mutual respect, preserving harmony and inclusiveness in our political landscape.
MY SO FAR CONSULTATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
The journey so far has been enlightening and encouraging. Consultations are actively ongoing with various stakeholders across the constituency. I have reached out to community leaders, youth groups, traditional institutions, and political influencers, seeking advice and building consensus.
This process has reaffirmed my belief that leadership should emerge from dialogue and consent, not imposition. My vision is not a personal crusade but a collective movement towards genuine representation and progress.
HOW TO OVERCOME THE CURRENT POLITICAL CHALLENGES IN OUR CONSTITUENCY:
No political journey is without its obstacles, and mine is no exception. One of the major hurdles is the push by some quarters to discard the gentleman’s agreement on power rotation. This move threatens to unravel the peaceful coexistence and understanding we have long enjoyed.
Abandoning this pact could lead to the marginalisation of key stakeholders, particularly the six wards of ZKLGA, who have contributed significantly to the constituency’s development. The political alienation of such a vital group would not only be unjust but could also ignite deep-rooted divisions.
As a newcomer in the political space, I am also navigating the murky waters of godfatherism where established figures attempt to impose their will on the process. My approach is different. I believe in earning the people’s mandate through merit, integrity, and vision, not through endorsements from political overlords.
Another pressing challenge is the prevalence of money politics. The idea that leadership can be bought undermines the democratic process and sidelines capable individuals who genuinely want to serve. I am committed to running a campaign based on ideas, values, and shared dreams, not financial inducement.
My CURRENT LEVEL OF ACCEPTANCE BY CONSTITUENTS:
Despite the challenges, I am heartened by the response I have received so far. My candidacy has been met with growing support from a wide spectrum of the population. People resonate with my message of unity, empowerment, and inclusive leadership.
This acceptance reflects a collective yearning for change a desire for leadership that prioritises community development over personal gain. I see this not just as support for me, but as an endorsement of a new political culture grounded in fairness, dialogue, and progress.
MY CALL FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION:
To move forward effectively, continuous and wider consultations are essential. My mission will not succeed without the active involvement of the people I aim to represent. I encourage citizens to share their concerns, dreams, and ideas so we can co-create solutions together.
Beyond political strategies, I humbly seek the support of individuals of goodwill those who understand the importance of credible leadership and are willing to stand for what is right. Whether through encouragement, resources, or spreading the message, your backing matters.
And above all, I ask for prayers. I firmly believe in the guidance of God in all endeavours, and this journey is no exception. With divine direction and the collective effort of our people, we can usher in a new era of representation that is truly by the people and for the people.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS AND A CALL FOR RESPONSIBLE REPRESENTATION:
Leadership should be a duty, not a privilege. My entry into politics is not a personal quest, but a mission to rekindle hope, build trust, and set a new benchmark for representation. If given the opportunity, I intend to bring integrity, humility, and inclusiveness to public office.
This is more than an ambition it’s a movement for change, fairness, and true service from me. The time for change is now, and it begins with every single one of us.
News
David Sabo Kente Expresses Love for Taraba, Commits to Development at Dr. Samfo Bala’s Birthday Celebration
By Nahum Sule, Jalingo
Chief David Sabo Kente, a prominent philanthropist, politician, and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirmed his deep affection for Taraba State and his commitment to its development during the birthday celebration of Dr. Samfo Bala in Wukari Local Government Area on 25th April, 2025.
Speaking at the event, Chief Kente, who is widely known for his contributions through the DSK Foundation, declared, “I love Taraba with all my heart, and every time I visit this state, I am coming for construction—building not just structures but also opportunities for our people.”
His statement underscored his ongoing dedication to fostering growth and progress in Taraba through infrastructural and socio-economic initiatives.
The birthday celebration of Dr. Samfo Bala, held in Wukari, brought together community leaders, political associates, and residents, providing a platform for Chief Kente to highlight his vision for the state. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to drive development, stating that his visits are always aimed at contributing to projects that uplift the lives of Taraba’s citizens.
Chief Kente’s remarks resonate with his recent philanthropic and political activities, including his donation of 220 hectares of land valued at over N1 billion to the Taraba State government for the construction of a General Hospital in Wukari, a gesture made during his 60th birthday celebration earlier this year.
The hospital, to be named after him, reflects his commitment to improving healthcare access in the region. As a former gubernatorial aspirant and a respected figure in Taraba, Chief Kente’s contributions extend beyond infrastructure. Through the DSK Foundation, he has provided scholarships to numerous students, supported orphanages, and empowered vulnerable communities, earning him accolades such as the “Ambassador of Peace and Societal Development” and an honorary doctorate from Kwararafa University, Wukari.
The event concluded with calls from attendees for continued unity and development in Wukari and Taraba State, with Chief Kente’s words inspiring hope for a brighter future. His unwavering dedication to Taraba’s progress remains a cornerstone of his legacy as a leader and philanthropist.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared four individuals wanted over the alleged fraud perpetrated on crypto bridge exchange (CBEX), a trading platform.
The four suspects are Adefowora Olanipekun, Adefowora Oluwanisola, Emmanuel Uko, and Seyi Oloyede.
More to follow…