Police authorities in Kogi State have launched an investigation into the attack on the family residence of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in Obeiba-Ihima, located in Okehi Local Government Area. The attack, which happened in the early hours of Tuesday, April 15, was carried out by three unidentified men armed with cutlasses. They reportedly stormed the house around 1:00 a.m., damaging several front window panes in an attempt to break into the property.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the development through its spokesperson, SP William Aya, who stated that the incident was reported around 3:30 a.m. by Yakubu Ovanja, an aide to the senator. Upon receiving the call, officers from the Okehi Police Division were immediately dispatched to the scene.
On arrival, they met Michael Akpoti, a relative of the senator, who explained that the attackers used cutlasses to shatter the glass windows and were attempting to force their way in when he raised the alarm. His quick response is believed to have caused the intruders to flee the scene before further damage or harm could be done.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police directed the Deputy Commissioner in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department to begin a thorough and discreet investigation. The goal, according to the police, is to determine the motive behind the attack and identify those responsible.
While the police have not confirmed any suspects or motives, Senator Natasha’s aides have linked the attack to her recent political stance. Israel Arogbonlo, the senator’s Chief Press Secretary, alleged that the attack was politically motivated, stating that the senator had recently made serious allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment. According to Arogbonlo, this attack appears to be a direct backlash against her courage to speak out.
He further stated that the attackers may have believed Senator Natasha was in the building at the time, but she was not. He confirmed that security operatives acted quickly and were able to repel the intruders before any injuries occurred.
The senator herself also commented on the incident, recounting that her younger brother had taken contractors to their hometown to inspect potential sites for developmental projects she had facilitated. That evening, the house came under attack, possibly because the assailants believed she was in town. She expressed gratitude that the local civil defence team and members of the community responded quickly, forcing the attackers to flee. She confirmed that a formal report was filed with the police and no one was harmed.
The police investigation is still ongoing, and authorities have assured the public that they are committed to uncovering the truth behind the attack and ensuring that justice is served.
