Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has criticised Governor Usman Ododo over what she described as poor performance by his administration, insisting that the payment of salaries should not be presented as an achievement.

Akpoti-Uduaghan made the remarks in a video circulating on Tuesday, urging the governor to learn from other state leaders, particularly Abia State Governor Alex Otti.

“How come we have come this low that only thugs are being rewarded? It’s really unfortunate. No development,” she said.

She added: “See what other governors are doing. Look at Governor Alex Otti of Abia state, an opposition. He is the only Labour Party governor. Look at what he is achieving in his state.

“Yet you say you are paying salaries. Therefore, that’s an achievement. But that’s not an achievement. It is your right.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan was sworn in as senator on November 2, 2023, following rulings by the Kogi State Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which declared her the winner of the Kogi Central senatorial election held in February 2023.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker is seeking re-election in 2027 and is expected to face former governor Yahaya Bello, who is the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Kogi Central.