Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has defended her decision to distribute millions of naira in cash to constituents during an empowerment programme, explaining that the intervention reflected beneficiaries’ preference for direct financial assistance.
The exercise, however, drew sharp criticism from the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, which called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the programme over allegations of vote-buying.
Cash Distribution Sparks Public Debate
The senator faced scrutiny after photographs and videos of the cash distribution, held during an event marking her third anniversary in the 10th National Assembly, circulated on social media. The images prompted questions about the propriety and purpose of the handouts.
In a statement issued in Abuja by her media aide, Mike Idoko, the lawmaker said her decision was informed by her constituents’ preferences, based on feedback from previous empowerment exercises.
She explained that she had previously distributed sewing machines to many beneficiaries, only to discover that some sold the equipment to boost their businesses or pay rent.
“So I have decided to give cash to those who requested support to start a business or add more stock. Some will get N5m through transfer,” she said.
The lawmaker noted that entrepreneurs have different operational realities, making direct cash assistance a practical option for addressing challenges ranging from business expansion and stock replenishment to the acquisition of essential production materials.
Anniversary Message Highlights Support for Small Businesses
In her anniversary message, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and described the business grants as part of her commitment to strengthening local enterprises and improving economic opportunities across Kogi Central.
“We rounded off our third anniversary in office by supporting small businesses across Kogi Central with cash grants. From farmers and tailors to content creators and small-scale manufacturers, these entrepreneurs are building livelihoods and strengthening our local economy,” she stated.
“Thus, I’m grateful to God and honoured to support local businesses with the financial assistance they need to grow.”
Beneficiaries reportedly received grants ranging from N100,000 to N5m, depending on their business needs. Some received N2m, N3m and N4m, while others were given up to N5m through bank transfers.
OK Movement Seeks EFCC Investigation
The Obi-Kwankwaso Movement condemned the programme, describing it as alleged vote-buying, and called for an EFCC investigation.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the movement’s Director-General, John Ughulu, urged the anti-graft agency to investigate the circumstances surrounding the exercise and prosecute anyone found culpable.
Ughulu also threatened to mobilise political resources against the senator’s return to the National Assembly, accusing her of undermining democratic principles through the public distribution of millions of naira to constituents.
“The OK Movement strongly condemns the reported cash empowerment exercise by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The action is an apparent case of open vote-buying and a serious affront to democratic principles,” the statement read.
“We call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding this exercise and, where evidence of wrongdoing is established, prosecute those responsible in accordance with the law.”
The group described the lawmaker as a disgrace to the Senate, insisting that elected officials should not use financial inducements to influence citizens’ electoral choices.
“This development is a total disgrace to the Nigerian Senate as an institution. Elected public officials must understand that public office is a position of responsibility, not an opportunity to compromise the electoral choices of citizens through financial inducements,” it said.
“The OK Movement will not remain silent in the face of practices that undermine our democracy. We condemn this conduct and declare our intention to mobilise every legitimate political resource within our reach to campaign against Senator Natasha’s return to the Senate.”
Ughulu added that Nigeria deserves leaders who respect democratic values, uphold accountability and earn the confidence of the people through competence, integrity and service, rather than financial inducements.
