Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has condemned the alleged arrest of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members in Ekiti State ahead of the June 20 governorship election, calling for their immediate release and warning against political intimidation.
Speaking at a PDP mega rally in Ado-Ekiti, the Kogi Central lawmaker urged political actors to focus on issue-based campaigning rather than what she described as politics driven by bitterness and coercion.
She said elections should be determined by manifestoes and ideas, not intimidation or abuse of state power, insisting that democracy must protect citizens’ rights.
The PDP had earlier accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of detaining its members under the guise of “Form K” operations, an allegation the ruling party dismissed as unfounded.
Natasha also rejected claims that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state, arguing that the country’s democracy remains competitive despite recent defections to the ruling party.
She said opposition parties must strengthen their structures and operate within democratic rules to remain relevant.
The senator also reaffirmed her political base ahead of 2027, saying she had secured her candidacy for re-election in Kogi Central and maintained strong party structures nationwide.
She described the PDP governorship candidate in Ekiti, Wole Oluyede, as competent and urged voters to support the party for improved governance.
Oluyede, in his remarks, accused the incumbent governor of relying heavily on President Bola Tinubu’s influence for re-election, rather than focusing on his performance in office.
He urged the president to allow a free and fair contest in the state, insisting that voters should determine the outcome of the election without interference.
Other party leaders present at the rally included senior PDP figures and former officeholders who expressed support for the party’s campaign in Ekiti State.
