Group wants EFCC to investigate Natasha's cash distribution

The Obi-Kwankwaso Movement has asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to look into Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's cash distribution programme. They claim that giving money to constituents looks like vote-buying.

In a statement from Abuja on Wednesday, John Ughulu, the Director-General of the OK Movement, called on the EFCC to check what happened during the programme and take action against anyone found guilty.

Ughulu also said they would gather political support to oppose the senator's return to the National Assembly. He accused her of hurting democratic values by giving away millions of naira to constituents.

The statement said, "The OK Movement strongly condemns the reported cash empowerment exercise by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This looks like open vote-buying and is a serious attack on democratic values.

"We call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to quickly look into this exercise. If evidence of wrongdoing is found, those responsible should be prosecuted according to the law."

The group said the exercise brought shame to the Senate. They insisted that elected officials should not use money to influence how citizens vote.

"This situation is a total disgrace to the Nigerian Senate as an institution. Elected officials must realize that public office is a responsibility, not a chance to manipulate how citizens vote with money."

"The OK Movement will not keep quiet about actions that weaken our democracy. We condemn this behaviour and are ready to use all lawful political means to stop Senator Natasha from returning to the Senate."

"Nigeria deserves leaders who respect democratic values, are accountable, and win the people's trust through skill, integrity, and service, not through money," Ughulu added.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, defended her choice to give millions of naira to constituents during an event marking her third anniversary in the 10th National Assembly.

She faced backlash after photos and videos of cash bundles at the event spread on social media. This raised questions about whether it is right to show large amounts of money during a constituency event.

But in a statement from her media aide, Mike Idoko, the senator explained that she chose to give cash instead of business tools because that’s what the beneficiaries wanted.

She noted that previous events showed some constituents preferred cash support over equipment because of their immediate business needs.

This criticism has brought back discussions about constituency empowerment programmes held by elected leaders, especially the use of cash transfers as a way to help people.