The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has strongly criticized the alleged plot to arrest Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing the move as a direct assault on Nigeria’s democratic values. In a statement released on Tuesday, CUPP warned that such actions pose a serious threat to political freedom and the rule of law in the country.
According to CUPP spokesperson Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the reported plan to detain Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is politically motivated and designed to intimidate opposition figures. He asserted that the coalition will not stand by while fundamental rights are violated.
“The attempt to harass and possibly arrest Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is nothing short of an anti-democratic maneuver. Nigeria cannot afford to return to an era where political dissent is met with intimidation and persecution,” Ugochinyere stated.
The CUPP further urged security agencies to resist being used as tools for political vendettas, emphasizing that law enforcement should remain neutral and uphold the constitution.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has not issued an official statement on the matter. However, sources close to the lawmaker suggest that she is aware of the allegations and is taking legal and political steps to protect her rights.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a vocal advocate for democratic governance and social justice, has been at the forefront of various political and economic reform initiatives in her state and beyond. Her supporters believe the alleged plot against her is linked to her firm stance against corruption and political malpractice.
Civil society organizations and political analysts have weighed in on the matter, warning that any politically motivated arrest could deepen tensions within the country’s political landscape. A democracy advocate, Dr. Amina Balogun, described the alleged threat as a dangerous precedent that must be resisted.
“Nigeria’s democracy thrives on respect for opposition voices. If this allegation is true, it could discourage credible individuals from participating in politics out of fear of persecution,” she stated.
In response to the situation, CUPP has called on the National Assembly, human rights organizations, and the international community to monitor developments closely and ensure that due process is followed. The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to defending democratic institutions and preventing Nigeria from sliding into political repression.
As the controversy unfolds, political observers are watching closely to see how security agencies and the federal government respond to the allegations. With growing concerns about the shrinking space for political opposition in Nigeria, the outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for future political engagements.
TheLink News NG will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.