JUST IN: Natasha declares for second term, rallies PDP stakeholders

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Monday, formally declared her intention to seek re-election for a second term, setting the tone for early political mobilisation within the Peoples Democratic Party in the district.

Her declaration, announced at a Kogi Central PDP stakeholders’ meeting, comes amid growing political realignments and intensified grassroots consultations ahead of the next electoral cycle.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mike Idoko.

According to the statement, the meeting brought together party leaders, supporters, and key stakeholders to deliberate on the future of the PDP in Kogi Central—a senatorial district that has in recent cycles emerged as a battleground for influence between major political actors.

Addressing the gathering, the lawmaker said her decision to re-contest followed months of consultations and mounting pressure from constituents across the five local government areas.

“After due consultations and encouragement from my lovely husband, I am here to say I have accepted your calls to re-contest for my second term as your senator,” she declared to resounding applause.

Her announcement follows what party insiders describe as a steady wave of endorsements from community leaders and party faithful over the past four months, signalling a consolidation of support at the grassroots level.

In her remarks, Akpoti-Uduaghan also used the platform to push for internal cohesion within the PDP, warning that disunity could undermine the party’s chances in future elections.

“This is the time to bring everyone back home. We must reconcile with those who may have had one issue or another, for the betterment of our party and the success of our elections ahead,” she urged.

Speaking at the event, the PDP Kogi Central Zonal Chairman, Anthony Akuvada, commended the senator’s performance, describing her as a transformational leader whose tenure has reshaped representation in the district.

“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has redefined representation in Kogi Central. Her performance in office has been nothing short of exemplary, from infrastructural development to human capital empowerment,” Akuvada said.

He further praised her accessibility and consistent engagement with constituents, noting that her leadership style has strengthened ties between elected officials and the grassroots.

“She is a leader who listens, understands the pulse of her people, and has consistently delivered on her promises. Her closeness to party members and constituents is a rare quality that continues to unite our party,” he added.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s first term has been defined by interventions in education, youth and women empowerment, as well as sustained advocacy for infrastructure in Kogi Central—efforts that have earned her cross-party recognition and widened her political base.

She also expressed appreciation to her husband, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Otuoze Uduaghan, Alema of Warri Kingdom, acknowledging his role in her political journey.

“My husband has been my steadfast support system, my encourager, and my strength through every challenge. I remain grateful for his belief in me and in this journey of service,” she said.

With her re-election bid now formally declared, attention is expected to shift to intra-party dynamics and opposition response, as stakeholders closed the meeting with renewed pledges to strengthen party unity and rally support behind her candidacy.