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Politics, when properly understood, is not about noise or sentiments; it is about timing, opportunity, and the wisdom to protect collective interest. There are moments in the life of a people when history quietly presents a chance for progress, moments that must be recognised and defended with clarity and courage. For Kogi central, this is one of such moments. The conversation about returning Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the senate for a second term should therefore be guided by reason, not rivalry, and by foresight, not political convenience.
The Nigerian senate is an institution where effectiveness grows with experience. First terms are often consumed by learning, understanding legislative rules, committee dynamics, budgetary processes, and the informal power structures that define influence in Abuja. Senator Natasha has already gone through that demanding phase. What lies ahead, if she is returned, is a stage where experience translates directly into results. A second term means Kogi central will be represented by a lawmaker who no longer needs orientation, but one who understands how to convert presence into tangible outcomes.
Development, especially in a system as complex as Nigeria’s, thrives on continuity. One of the persistent challenges confronting Kogi central over the years has been the frequent disruption of developmental momentum caused by political turnover. Projects begin without completion, initiatives lose direction, and relationships built at the federal level are abruptly abandoned. Returning Senator Natasha guarantees stability. It ensures that engagements already established are strengthened, not discarded, and that the foundations laid in the first term are built upon rather than reset.
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In the senate, seniority is not ceremonial; it is functional. Ranking senators enjoy greater influence, command deeper respect, and have stronger bargaining power during national decision-making, particularly in budget negotiations and committee leadership. A second-term Senator Natasha stands in a far better position to attract attention to the needs of Kogi central, to negotiate effectively on its behalf, and to ensure that the district is not sidelined in national priorities. This is a practical political advantage that directly benefits the people.
Beyond institutional politics, representation must be measured by visibility, courage, and connection to the people. Senator Natasha’s tenure has demonstrated a style of representation that is engaged and assertive. She has consistently projected the concerns of Kogi central onto the national stage, ensuring that the district is not treated as a political footnote. In a country where silence often leads to neglect, such visibility is invaluable.
Leadership is also defined by how it responds to adversity. Senator Natasha has shown resilience and courage in defending her mandate and standing firm in the face of challenges. This strength has earned her recognition beyond Kogi state, giving Kogi central a voice that resonates nationally. When a senator is respected and heard, the constituency gains leverage, relevance, and attention—assets that cannot be replaced by experimentation.
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The temptation to compromise progress by introducing untested alternatives is one Kogi central must consciously resist. Nigerian political history is replete with examples of constituencies that sacrificed continuity and later paid the price in lost influence and stalled development. This is not the time for political gambling. It is a time to consolidate gains, protect momentum, and deepen representation.
I, therefore, appeal, as a concerned citizen and advocate of good governance, to the people of Kogi central to recognise what is at stake. Opportunities like this are rare. They demand unity of purpose and clarity of choice. This is not about personalities; it is about safeguarding the future of a senatorial district that has waited too long for sustained progress.
Kogi central must not miss this moment. It must not dilute its voice. And it must not compromise its future. Returning Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the senate for a second term is a strategic decision—one that secures continuity, strengthens influence, and positions the district for lasting benefits.
Michael Idoko, a media entrepreneur, publisher and public-affairs commentator, wrote in from Abuja.
