The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has defended the disbursement of millions of naira in cash to her constituents during an empowerment event, according to Punch. She affirmed that she has not received any summons from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission but remains willing to attend if called.
The public reaction began after video recordings and pictures showing bundles of banknotes at her empowerment programme circulated online. The event was held to mark her anniversary in the 10th National Assembly. Some members of the public expressed concern over the open handling and sharing of large cash amounts at a constituency event.
In reaction to the footage, a group known as the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement called on the EFCC to look into the funds. The director-general of the group, John Ughulu, issued a statement in Abuja describing the cash grant as alleged vote-buying and requested that the anti-corruption agency prosecute anyone involved in wrongdoing. The organisation also said it would work against her re-election bid, claiming the act undermined democratic values.
Akpoti-Uduaghan addressed the allegations in a video shared on social media, insisting the distribution was entirely open and above board. She stated that the money disbursed came directly from allocations budgeted by the Federal Government for constituency support.
She explained that roughly 600 constituents attended the event where the cash was presented before distribution. The lawmaker also urged the group to direct its focus toward its own representatives in parliament and request similar welfare interventions for their people, rather than asking for her investigation.
