Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has defended her decision to hand out millions of naira in cash to constituents in Kogi Central, saying the move was guided by the real needs of beneficiaries rather than the distribution of equipment.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by her media aide, Mike Idoko, the lawmaker explained that she switched to direct cash support after discovering that many recipients of earlier empowerment items, such as sewing machines, had sold them to raise money for their businesses or to pay rent.
“I have given out sewing machines to many, and at the end of the day, I realised they sold them to either boost their businesses or pay rent,” she said. “So I have decided to give cash to those who requested support to start a business or add more stock. There are also those who will get ₦5m through transfer.”
The cash distribution formed part of activities marking her third anniversary in the 10th National Assembly on November 2, 2026. Images and videos of the event showing large sums of money being shared sparked criticism online, with some users questioning whether public cash handouts represent meaningful representation or sustainable empowerment.
Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that entrepreneurs face different challenges and that cash grants offer a more practical solution for business expansion, restocking, or purchasing essential materials.
Beneficiaries, drawn from sectors including agriculture, tailoring, content creation and small-scale manufacturing, received amounts ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦5 million, with some getting ₦2m, ₦3m or ₦4m, while others received larger sums via bank transfer.
In her anniversary message, the senator described the initiative as part of her ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening the economy of Kogi Central.
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