13 December 2025
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has revealed that she has repeatedly been pressured by top government figures and colleagues in the National Assembly to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), but has consistently turned down the overtures.
Speaking during an interview with Seun Okinbaloye on Mic On, the senator disclosed that the attempts to lure her into the APC have been ongoing and relentless, with some coming from within the Presidency itself.
“I have been approached many times—by people from the Presidency and even by my colleagues,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said. “As recently as yesterday, someone joked that they are still expecting me and would love to have me.”
Despite the pressure, the lawmaker made it clear that she has no intention of returning to the APC, describing her earlier association with the party as a closed chapter in her political journey. She said she remains comfortable in the PDP and sees no justification for defecting.
“Why should I go and join the APC? Everybody is going there,” she said. “I don’t have to follow the bandwagon. I don’t have to succumb to threats or fall for cajolery.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan also spoke candidly about the gender-based obstacles she has faced in politics, noting that her origin and marital status were often weaponised against her. She recalled being told at different times that she was not from Kogi State and, after her marriage, that she should contest elections in Delta State because of her husband’s origin.
According to her, such attacks did not break her resolve, as she had mentally prepared herself for the challenges that come with political life.
“I had already braced myself inwardly. I was ready for it,” she said.
The senator urged women aspiring to political office not to be intimidated by systemic barriers, stressing that resilience and self-belief are essential.
When asked whether joining the APC could ever be an option if circumstances changed within the PDP, Akpoti-Uduaghan was unequivocal.
“No. No, no, no. I wouldn’t,” she said.
