By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a dramatic turn of events, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed the petition seeking the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District. According to an announcement made on INEC’s official Facebook page, the petition failed to meet the constitutional threshold outlined in Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The recall process, which had generated heated debates and political tension, was seen by many as a test of the senator’s popularity and influence in Kogi politics. However, INEC’s declaration has now put the matter to rest, at least for the time being.
While the commission has promised a detailed statement on the matter, political analysts believe this outcome is a major victory for Senator Natasha and her supporters. It remains to be seen how her opponents will respond to this setback in their bid to unseat her.