The Social Democratic Party in Kogi State has strongly criticized the recent prohibition of political rallies and convoys imposed by the state government, labeling it an assault on democratic principles and an attempt to suppress opposition voices.
In a statement released on Tuesday in Lokoja, SDP State Chairman Mr. Ahmed Attah, through the party’s Press Secretary Isaiah Ijele, expressed deep concern over the government’s decision. Attah emphasized that such actions infringe upon citizens’ constitutional rights to free association and movement.
“The party views this action as an attempt to suppress the freedom of association and movement enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he stated.
Attah further urged Governor Ahmed Ododo to learn from past governance missteps and avoid practices that have previously hindered the state’s progress. He asserted that Kogi State is not in a state of conflict that would warrant such restrictive measures and advised the government to prioritize developmental initiatives over political maneuvering aimed at silencing dissent.
This condemnation comes in the wake of the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central. On March 6, 2025, the Nigerian Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, citing violations of Senate rules.
The suspension followed allegations of sexual harassment she leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which were dismissed by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions due to procedural issues.
The committee recommended her suspension for actions deemed as misconduct and indiscipline, including refusal to sit in her assigned seat during plenary sessions and making disrespectful remarks against the Senate leadership.
Additional sanctions included the closure of her Senate office, withdrawal of her security details, and suspension of her salary and allowances.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has condemned her suspension, asserting that it is unjust and politically motivated. She vowed to challenge the decision, stating, “This injustice will not be sustained”
The SDP’s denunciation of the rally ban, coupled with the controversy surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, underscores growing concerns about political freedoms and democratic governance in Kogi State. Observers fear that these developments may signal a regression to oppressive practices that stifle opposition and curtail civil liberties.
