Okonkwo Samuel
Early Life and Education
Senator Natasha Akpoti’s early years were marked by ambition and charisma. She attended secondary school, where she was known for her strong personality and ability to navigate challenges. Former classmates recall that she often found ways to handle difficult situations with teachers, including the school’s English and Literature instructor, Mr. Pius Onyebuchi.
In 2000, she gained admission to study law at the University of Abuja. Her presence on campus was noticeable—her confidence, fashion choices, and social engagements set her apart. Some former classmates remember her as someone who carried herself with flair, attracting attention both for her style and her interactions. By 2004, she had earned her law degree, and in 2005, she proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, after which she was called to the bar.
To expand her professional qualifications, she pursued a Master’s degree in Oil & Gas Management in the UK in 2011, completing the program in 2012. During this period, she built a strong network that would later play a role in her career trajectory.
Career – From Law to Advocacy
After law school, Natasha Akpoti worked as legal counsel at a major LNG company from 2007 to 2010. Her role provided her with experience in corporate legal affairs, business negotiations, and regulatory matters.
In 2015, she founded the Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP), an initiative aimed at attracting investors and fostering business growth. The program, like many high-stakes investment platforms, faced scrutiny from critics, with some questioning its operations and business model.
Her defining moment came in March 2018 when she gained national attention with an exposé on the state of the Ajaokuta Steel Mill. Armed with documents, she alleged corruption and mismanagement in the industry, making bold accusations against certain politicians and business figures. While some hailed her as a whistleblower, others dismissed her claims as politically motivated. The controversy led to legal battles, including lawsuits involving media reports about her role in the case.
Political Career – The Rise to the Senate
In 2018, Natasha Akpoti declared her intention to run for the Kogi Central Senate seat, championing a campaign that emphasized gender representation and economic empowerment. By May 2022, she joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and navigated the primaries successfully, facing stiff competition. Her political strategy was both assertive and unconventional, earning her both admiration and criticism.
During the 2023 general elections, tensions arose between her and the Kogi State government, particularly over allegations that her supporters were being hindered from voting. The closely contested election ended with her opponent winning by a margin of 369 votes. However, on September 6, 2023, the election tribunal ruled in her favor, citing irregularities. This decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal on October 31, 2023, confirming her victory.
The Political Chess Game
Senator Natasha Akpoti has established herself as a formidable force in Nigerian politics. Her journey from the legal sector to the Senate has been marked by strategic alliances, resilience, and an ability to navigate the complexities of power. Supporters see her as a trailblazer challenging the status quo, while critics argue that her rise has been shaped by political maneuvering and controversy.
One thing is certain—Natasha Akpoti is not one to back down from a challenge. Whether in business, activism, or politics, she has demonstrated a willingness to push boundaries and redefine the rules in her favour.
