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From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has described the incident as a troubling sign of Nigeria’s deepening political intolerance.
In a statement in Abuja yesterday, the lawmaker cautioned that rising political hostility and unchecked partisanship were steadily eroding democratic values, insisting that no political ambition justifies violence.
“This report is not just disturbing, it is frightening. It signals a dangerous drift in our political culture, where intolerance and aggression are fast replacing dialogue and persuasion,” she said.
According to her, the essence of democracy lies in open contests, free expression and respect for opposing views, not intimidation, harassment or physical harm.
She warned that, “our democracy can only survive when political competition is conducted within the bounds of civility, law and mutual respect. Once violence becomes a tool of engagement, we all become endangered.”
She pointed to the growing trend of political actors, who in their desperation to prove loyalty to powerful figures, take the law into their own hands and unleash attacks on perceived opponents, saying, “There is an emerging pattern of overzealous political actors who believe that intimidating or attacking opposition figures will earn them favour. This mindset is reckless, divisive and extremely dangerous for our collective peace.”
The lawmaker stressed that opposition figures are protected by the Constitution and must be allowed to organise, mobilise and campaign freely without fear of intimidation or harm as silencing dissent or criminalising opposition activities strikes at the heart of democratic governance.
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She continued, “No society can progress when citizens are scared to express alternative views.”
The Kogi Central senator called on security agencies to move swiftly, uncover the full circumstances surrounding the alleged attack and ensure that the perpetrators were decisively punished.
“This matter demands urgent, transparent and thorough investigation. Those behind it must be identified and brought to justice to reassure Nigerians that no one is above the law,” she said.
Reaffirming her commitment to democratic ideals, Akpoti-Uduaghan pledged to continue standing for the protection of lives, civil liberties and the rule of law.
“I will always defend democracy, the rule of law and the safety of every Nigerian, irrespective of political leaning,” she stated.
While urging political leaders across party divides to rein in their supporters and place national stability above partisan interests, she further warned that persistent political violence could severely undermine public confidence in the democratic system.
According to her, decisive action by security agencies is now crucial, not only to resolve this particular case, but also to send a strong message that Nigeria will not tolerate politically motivated violence.
