Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has defended her decision to distribute cash to constituents during an empowerment programme, following criticism on social media.

The senator came under fire after videos emerged showing her displaying bundles of cash at the event held on November 2, with some social media users accusing her of promoting handouts and vote-buying.

Several users on X questioned the practice of distributing money to constituents, arguing that such funds could instead be channelled into infrastructure and other development projects.

However, in a statement issued on Wednesday by her media aide, Mike Idoko, Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that her decision to give cash followed her experience with previous empowerment initiatives.

She said some beneficiaries who received sewing machines from her had sold the equipment to raise money for business needs or pay their 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. So I have decided to give cash,” she said.