Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Gives Cash Grants in Kogi Central, Sparking Debate Ahead of 2027

A video of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan handing out cash to constituents is drawing sharp reactions online. The senator represents Kogi Central on the Peoples Democratic Party platform. She shared the money at a town hall meeting with small-scale entrepreneurs. The footage surfaced on November 3, 2026, and many Nigerians quickly questioned its timing.

According to reports, organisers described the money as business grants. One analysis put the amount at N2 million for each selected beneficiary. The senator also explained why she chose cash this time. Earlier empowerment programmes gave beneficiaries sewing machines, but many recipients later sold them. “I have given out sewing machines to many,” she said. She added that cash would let beneficiaries start businesses or buy stock.

The timing fuels the debate. The outreach comes ahead of the February 2027 election, in which she seeks re-election. Challengers include former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. Consequently, supporters and critics read the same event in very different ways.

Critics currently dominate the online conversation. One X user asked “why does she have to wait till election period to do this.” Another commenter described the giveaway as “vote buying in the real sense.” Meanwhile, others argued that the money could fund lasting projects instead of one-time payments.

Her supporters see a pattern of grassroots giving rather than an election tactic. In August 2024, she distributed cash to market women in Ihima, Okene, Adavi, and Ajaokuta. Her office said then that the money aimed to ease economic hardship. Moreover, she has handed out food items during Ramadan and Lent, and she has given away sewing machines, grinding machines, and deep freezers. During an earlier food distribution, she said the gifts went to constituents “irrespective of party affiliations.”

However, earlier handouts also drew criticism. In March 2025, while a recall effort against her gained momentum, one outlet described her rice distribution as a strategic move to regain public sympathy. Therefore, the current argument echoes an older debate about her motives.

Analysts have also weighed the broader question. One commentary asked whether the grants represent a business lifeline or another face of Nigeria’s money politics. It noted that politicians increasingly use direct payments to show their presence and maintain relationships with voters. Additionally, it said the grants could strengthen her connection with traders, artisans, and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Importantly, the reports reviewed by Sojworldnews show no official finding of wrongdoing. They also contain no direct response from the senator to the vote-buying criticism. Her office has not publicly addressed whether the timing links to the campaign.

For now, the debate shows how cash empowerment programmes can divide opinion. Beneficiaries may welcome fresh capital for their businesses. Critics, in contrast, want leaders to deliver support consistently, not only when elections approach. Ultimately, Kogi Central voters will judge the senator’s intentions at the polls.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Distributes Cash Gifts to Constituents in Kogi Central Ahead of 2027 Elections…..My question is, why does she have to wait till election period to do this 🤔? https://t.co/hnD4PrhfrV

— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) November 3, 2026