Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Criticizes Weak Party Structures, Calls for Stronger Political Institutions

Abuja — Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed concern over the dominance of individual politicians over political parties in Nigeria, stating that such trends undermine democratic institutions.

In a video interview with AIT on July 21, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan argued that the All Progressives Congress (APC) should hold more authority than any single individual, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “The APC should command greater respect and influence than President Tinubu, but that’s not the operational reality in our democracy,” she said.

The Kogi Central representative highlighted the lack of defined ideologies among Nigeria’s major political parties as a critical issue. “Political parties in Nigeria don’t have clear philosophies, which makes it difficult to differentiate between the APC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), or the Labour Party,” she noted.

Using her own political experience as an example, she stated, “In Kogi Central, my personal brand has become synonymous with the political movement. If I were to shift my allegiance to the Zenith Party, many supporters would likely follow me there.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized the need to strengthen party institutions and promote ideologies that are not reliant on individuals. Her remarks have sparked renewed discussion about political party reforms and the need for structural development in Nigeria’s democratic system.