By Paul Ebi
Kogi State is witnessing a fresh wave of political buzz as Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan sparks excitement with a bold pledge to deliver free WiFi across Kogi Central, following a similar initiative proposed in the Eastern District.
The development came after the senator and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) visited Idah Local Government Area, where they welcomed new decampees into the party. Among them was Idris HK, whose proposal to install free internet access in strategic locations across Kogi East caught attention.
Impressed by the idea, Senator Natasha immediately signaled her intention to replicate—and possibly rival—the initiative in Kogi Central. She described the move as a necessary step toward empowering youths, boosting digital creativity, and opening doors for job opportunities in an increasingly online-driven economy.
Her announcement has since ignited reactions across social media and within communities, especially in Okene and surrounding areas, where many residents see the plan as a game-changer amid rising data costs in Nigeria.
While supporters hail the move as “forward-thinking leadership” and a sign of healthy competition among Kogi’s three senatorial districts, critics and skeptics are already raising questions about execution, sustainability, and political motives.
Online, reactions range from excitement to humor, with some joking about relocating to Kogi Central just to benefit from the free internet, while others warn—half-seriously—against using the service for heavy downloads that could “finish the data.”
Political undertones are also evident. Some commentators have used the moment to compare performances across party lines, taking subtle jabs at rival parties while praising the PDP’s approach as people-focused.
Still, beyond the banter, the core issue remains clear: access to the internet is increasingly seen as a basic necessity, not a luxury. If implemented successfully, the initiative could position Kogi as a model for digital inclusion at the subnational level.
For now, residents wait to see if the promise will move from political statement to tangible infrastructure. But one thing is certain—the conversation around governance in Kogi has shifted, and this time, it’s powered by WiFi.
