INEC Rejects Recall Petition Against Senator Natasha Over Errors

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised concerns over the recall petition submitted against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, citing the absence of essential contact details of the petitioners. The petition, which seeks the removal of the senator, was deemed incomplete due to the lack of verifiable information necessary for processing.

According to INEC’s regulations, a valid recall petition must include the signatures of more than half of the registered voters in the senator’s constituency, along with their contact information to facilitate verification. The omission of these details has stalled the commission’s ability to proceed with the verification process, thereby delaying any further action on the recall initiative.

The recall effort against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emerged following her suspension from the Senate on March 6, 2025, due to alleged gross misconduct during a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Subsequently, she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, intensifying the political tension surrounding her suspension. These events have polarized her constituents, leading to the initiation of the recall process.

In response to the recall petition, a Federal High Court in Lokoja issued an interim injunction restraining INEC from accepting any petitions aimed at initiating a recall process against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. The court’s decision was based on concerns that the petition contained fictitious signatures and lacked the necessary authenticity. The case has been adjourned to May 6, 2025, for further proceedings.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has dismissed the recall attempts, attributing them to political adversaries. Her media aide, Israel Arogbonlo, stated that the move is “sponsored by fifth columnists” and expressed confidence that the recall efforts would not succeed. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also criticized the recall initiative, alleging that it is politically motivated and orchestrated by opponents within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Despite the controversy, some constituents have expressed dissatisfaction with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s performance, citing unfulfilled campaign promises and inadequate representation. However, reports indicate that certain constituents were misled into signing the recall petition under the pretense of an empowerment program, raising questions about the legitimacy of the signatures collected.

As the situation unfolds, INEC has reiterated its commitment to adhering strictly to legal procedures and ensuring that any recall process complies with constitutional and regulatory frameworks. The commission has urged all parties involved to provide accurate and verifiable information to facilitate a transparent and fair process.