Authorities in Kogi State have launched an investigation into a reported attack on the ancestral home of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in Obeiba-Ihima, located in the Okehi Local Government Area. The state’s Police Command confirmed the incident and has vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
The early morning assault, allegedly carried out by unidentified assailants wielding cutlasses, occurred on Wednesday around 1:00 a.m. Though no casualties were reported, the attackers damaged the front-facing windows of the senator’s family house before fleeing the scene.
According to a statement released Friday by the spokesperson of the Kogi State Police Command, SP William Aya Ovye, the Command promptly responded after receiving a distress call from Yakubu Ovanja, a close aide to the senator.
Police Respond Swiftly After Distress Call
“On April 17, 2024, at approximately 0100 hours, the Police Command received a distress call indicating that some unknown hoodlums had invaded the family residence of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in Obeiba-Ihima,” the statement said.
SP Ovye explained that officers from the Okehi Divisional Police Headquarters were immediately dispatched to the scene to conduct an on-the-spot assessment. Upon arrival, they met a young man identified as Michael Akpoti at the premises. Michael, a relative of the senator, recounted the traumatic event to the police officers.
“Michael Akpoti narrated how the attackers used cutlasses to shatter several window panes while attempting to gain entry into the house,” the police statement continued. “He raised an alarm that ultimately forced the hoodlums to retreat before they could inflict further damage.”
The attack, though brief, left the family home with visible signs of destruction, raising concerns over the safety of the senator’s relatives and the potential political undertones of the incident.
Commissioner Orders Discreet Investigation
In reaction to the incident, the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Bethrand Onuoha, has instructed the Deputy Commissioner in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to initiate a thorough and discreet investigation into the matter.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed the DCP-CID to take over the case and lead a full-scale probe to uncover the motives behind the attack and apprehend those involved,” SP Ovye confirmed. “Our officers are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that those behind this act of violence are brought to justice.”
A Climate of Political Tension?
While the police have yet to officially link the incident to any political motive, the attack has sparked speculation due to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s high-profile political status. A vocal and influential figure, the senator has faced both praise and criticism for her reformist stance and recent political victories.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made history in 2023 when she won the Kogi Central Senatorial seat, defeating her closest rival from the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her political rise has been marked by a series of legal battles, public confrontations, and strong advocacy for improved governance in Kogi State.
Although she has yet to release an official statement on the incident, supporters and civil society organizations have begun raising questions over the security of prominent political figures in the state, especially those perceived to be in opposition to the current administration.
Calls for Accountability and Protection
Reacting to the news, local community leaders and activists have called on the police to ensure a transparent investigation and provide better security for politicians and their families.
“This attack, whether politically motivated or not, is a threat to peace and democracy in Kogi State,” said Dr. Halima Yusuf, a political analyst and human rights advocate. “Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is a public servant, and any threat to her or her family should be treated with the utmost seriousness.”
She added: “We urge the authorities to not only apprehend the perpetrators but to investigate whether this was part of a larger pattern of intimidation.”
Meanwhile, residents of Obeiba-Ihima expressed concern about the incident, noting that the area had generally been peaceful until recent months.
“It’s shocking and unsettling,” said Ibrahim Salihu, a community youth leader. “We’ve always known that house as a symbol of community strength. For hoodlums to target it in the dead of night is very troubling.”
Security Agencies Urged to Be Proactive
Security analysts say the attack reflects growing insecurity in Nigeria, where both politically motivated violence and criminal activities have become prevalent. They advise law enforcement agencies to adopt a more proactive approach in preventing similar attacks.
“Security agencies must not wait for high-profile incidents to happen before reacting,” said retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, Bamidele Fashola. “Early intelligence gathering, community engagement, and visible policing can deter such criminal behavior.”
What’s Next?
The police investigation is ongoing, with the Criminal Investigation Department now taking the lead. SP William Ovye assured that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
“We appeal to members of the public who may have information relevant to the case to come forward and assist the police,” he said.
As the community of Obeiba-Ihima watches closely and questions linger over the motives behind the attack, one thing remains clear: the need for heightened vigilance and swift justice in protecting citizens, regardless of their political affiliation.
