The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Wednesday said democracy thrives on healthy competition, free expression, and the protection of dissenting voices and the opposition has every constitutional right to organise, mobilise, and carry out political activities without fear.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated this following a reported attack on former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, in Edo State.
In a statement, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed concern over heightened political tensions and the safety of political actors across party lines and called on security agencies to investigate the described the incident as deeply disturbing, warning that rising political hostility could threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability.
“I strongly condemn the reported assassination attempt on former Governor Peter Obi and former National Chairman of the APC, John Odigie-Oyegun, in Edo State.
“This development is deeply disturbing and has no place in our democracy. Politics must never descend into violence, intimidation, or threats against perceived opponents,” she said.
“I am particularly concerned about overzealous political actors who, in a bid to impress or demonstrate loyalty to Mr. President or any other leader, take it upon themselves to harass or attack members of the opposition. Such actions are reckless, counterproductive, and dangerous to our national unity.
“Nigeria must remain a nation where political differences are resolved through dialogue and the ballot, not through violence. As a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I remain committed to defending democratic principles, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation.”
