On Sunday, July 6, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, launched the construction of two smart markets in Okene and Okehi Local Government Areas (LGAs), emphasizing her commitment to delivering democratic dividends despite her recent suspension from the Senate. The markets, located at Ihima Central Market in Oboroke (Okehi LGA) and a new Community Market in Okene LGA, aim to empower local traders, particularly women, and boost grassroots economic development. Each market will feature 80 modern shops (40 lock-up units, 40 open stalls) equipped with solar-powered electricity, boreholes, modern toilets, shop sockets, truck-friendly loading bays, and security streetlights, with completion slated for November 2025 to mark her second anniversary in office. The projects are part of a broader development plan for Kogi Central, including upcoming constituency interventions.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, suspended in May 2025 by the APC-led Senate over allegations of misconduct linked to her outspoken criticism of corruption, emphasized inclusive governance, stating, “I represent all the good people of Kogi Central at the Senate. Politics happens during elections, and after that, it’s performance that impacts everyone.” The event, attended by traditional leaders, women’s groups, and youth organizations, saw praise for her resilience amid political challenges, including a legal battle against her 2023 election upheld by the Supreme Court in February 2025.
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