By Parrot Newspaper 
Plan to Remove Natasha Thickens as INEC Backtracks on Recall Petition
INEC’s Sudden U-Turn Fuels Political Tension
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intensified the recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District. In a move that suggests renewed urgency, the electoral body, on Wednesday, confirmed that it had received additional details, including the phone numbers and emails of petitioners seeking to unseat the embattled senator.
This development marks a sharp departure from INEC’s earlier stance, where it stated that the recall petition lacked sufficient details. With this latest confirmation, political observers believe the process has entered a more decisive phase.
What Changed? INEC’s New Position on Natasha’s Recall
INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, disclosed the commission’s shift in a statement, revealing that:
The commission has now received the necessary contact details of the petitioners.
A formal letter has been sent to Senator Natasha, notifying her of the petition.
The presiding officer of the Senate has been copied, and the document is now public.
INEC will verify the signatures to determine if they meet the required threshold of more than 50% of registered voters in her constituency.
This new turn of events raises questions about whether external pressures or political undercurrents influenced INEC’s sudden change of position.
Political Undercurrents: Is This a Vendetta or a Legitimate Process?
The recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is unfolding against the backdrop of a heated political rivalry between her and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Just weeks ago, Natasha was suspended from the Senate after a dramatic fallout with Akpabio, with accusations of sexual harassment and abuse of power dominating the headlines.
Observers note that the timing of this recall effort suggests a politically motivated attempt to silence an outspoken critic. However, her opponents argue that the recall represents the will of the people in her constituency, some of whom allegedly feel misrepresented.
INEC’s Credibility at Stake?
This recall process also puts INEC under scrutiny. The commission’s initial dismissal of the petition for lacking crucial details and its sudden acceptance of new evidence raise concerns about transparency.
If INEC is perceived as acting under political influence, it could further dent public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections. The commission’s next step—authenticating the signatures—will be a critical test of its impartiality.
What Happens Next? The Road Ahead for Natasha’s Recall
With the process now officially in motion, the following steps will determine the senator’s fate:
1. Signature Verification: INEC will confirm whether over 50% of registered voters in Kogi Central signed the petition. If the threshold is met, the recall advances to the next stage.
2. Public Announcement: The commission will publish its findings, setting the stage for further legal and political battles.
3. Possible Referendum: If validated, INEC may conduct a referendum to determine if Senator Natasha should be removed from office.
Final Thoughts: A Political Battle Far from Over
Whether this recall process is a legitimate representation of the people’s will or a politically motivated move, one thing is certain: the battle over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Senate seat is far from over. As INEC proceeds with the verification process, the senator’s supporters and critics are gearing up for a prolonged political showdown.
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For now, all eyes remain on INEC. Will the commission maintain its independence, or will political interests dictate the outcome? Time will tell.
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