Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has expressed grave concern over the ongoing conflict between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging that the integrity of the Senate be upheld throughout the controversy.
In a statement posted on his official X page, Saraki emphasized the need for all involved parties to prioritize the Senate as an institution rather than personal interests. He warned that the current situation, which has already caused a significant public outcry, is damaging to the image and public perception of the Senate.
Saraki called for a transparent and open investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment raised by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio, stressing that this investigation must be conducted in accordance with the Constitution, Senate rules, and parliamentary conventions.
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He stressed that it is essential for both parties to cooperate fully with the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to determine the truth of the claims and preserve the integrity of the legislative body.
Drawing from his own experience as Senate President, Saraki recalled an instance during the 8th Senate when he was accused of importing an official car without paying customs duties. Saraki emphasized that, despite the difficulties of the situation, a transparent investigation by the Ethics Committee had cleared him of any wrongdoing, and this approach had upheld the Senate’s reputation.
The former Senate President stated that the Senate should not tolerate any form of misconduct, including sexual harassment, gender bias, or abuse of office, and urged that the investigation into Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan’s dispute follow the same transparent and open process.
Importantly, Saraki clarified that he was not taking sides in the matter, instead focusing on ensuring that the investigation is fair and unbiased. He reiterated that the Senate’s integrity and the sanctity of its processes must always be protected.
Saraki concluded by stressing the importance of safeguarding the Senate as an institution, asserting that the institution is vital to Nigeria’s democracy and should never be allowed to be undermined by individual actions.
