Natasha Defends Cash Grants As OK Movement Demands EFCC Investigation

Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has defended her decision to distribute millions of naira in cash to constituents during an empowerment programme, citing beneficiaries’ preference for direct financial support.

The lawmaker faced criticism after photographs and videos showing the distribution of cash at an event marking her third anniversary in the 10th National Assembly circulated on social media, raising questions about the purpose and propriety of the exercise.

In a statement issued by her media aide, Mike Idoko, Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that her decision was informed by feedback from previous empowerment programmes, during which some beneficiaries reportedly sold equipment received to meet other financial needs.

She cited sewing machines as an example, noting that some recipients had sold the equipment to raise funds for business expansion or pay rent.

According to her, providing cash would allow beneficiaries to address their specific business challenges, including starting enterprises, replenishing stock and purchasing essential production materials.

The senator said some beneficiaries would receive as much as ₦5m through bank transfers, while others would receive grants based on their business requirements.

The programme supported small-scale entrepreneurs across Kogi Central, including farmers, tailors, content creators and small-scale manufacturers.

Beneficiaries reportedly received between ₦100,000 and ₦5m, with some receiving ₦2m, ₦3m and ₦4m.

Akpoti-Uduaghan described the intervention as part of her commitment to supporting local businesses and improving economic opportunities in the senatorial district.

However, the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement condemned the exercise, describing it as alleged vote-buying and calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the distribution.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the movement’s Director-General, John Ughulu, urged the commission to investigate and prosecute anyone found culpable.

The group argued that elected officials should not use financial inducements to influence citizens’ electoral choices, warning that such practices could undermine democratic principles.

It also described the exercise as a disgrace to the Senate and threatened to mobilise legitimate political resources against the senator’s return to the National Assembly.

The controversy has renewed debate over the use of direct cash distributions in constituency empowerment programmes and the distinction between legitimate economic support and electoral inducement.