Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has weighed in on the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling for an open and transparent investigation to safeguard the integrity of the Senate.
Saraki, in a public statement, expressed concern over the negative impact of the controversy on the image and public perception of the National Assembly. He emphasized that all stakeholders, including senators and their supporters, must prioritize protecting the institution rather than individuals.
“The constitution, laws of the country, Senate rules, and parliamentary conventions should be adhered to in resolving the issue,” Saraki stated. “The objective should be to uncover the truth and protect the Senate from being perceived as tolerating lawbreaking.”
To ensure credibility, Saraki recommended that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation. He urged both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan to fully cooperate with the committee and present their claims transparently.
Read also: Mrs. Akpabio vows to sue Sen. Natasha over sexual harassment allegations, praises husband’s fidelity
Recalling a similar situation during his tenure as Senate President, Saraki cited his personal experience when he faced allegations over an official car importation. He voluntarily appeared before the Ethics Committee, allowing an open investigation that ultimately cleared his name. He stressed that such a precedent should be followed to reinforce public confidence in the Senate’s integrity.
Saraki warned against allowing the Senate to be portrayed as an institution that condones sexual harassment, gender bias, abuse of office, or disregard for standing rules. He reiterated that due process must be followed and any wrongdoing should be addressed appropriately.
“My position is not about taking sides,” he clarified. “I am not saying Akpabio is guilty or that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is right. What is crucial is finding the truth while ensuring that the Senate’s credibility remains intact.”
The former Senate President urged all lovers of democracy to work towards strengthening the institution, warning against any actions that could undermine its sanctity.
