Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has weighed in on the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging all parties to prioritize the integrity of the Senate over individual interests.
In a statement on Saturday, Saraki expressed concern that the controversy could undermine the credibility and public perception of the legislative institution.
He emphasized that all stakeholders—senators, staff, and political leaders—must uphold the sanctity of the Senate as a vital arm of government.
Saraki called for an open, transparent, and impartial investigation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. He urged both parties to cooperate fully to ensure fairness and truth.
“This is not the first time a Senate President has appeared before the committee to facilitate a transparent investigation. During my tenure, when allegations were made against me regarding an official vehicle, I voluntarily testified before the committee in full media glare. The process was fair and ultimately disproved the allegations,” Saraki recalled.
He stressed the need to follow due process to prevent any perception that the Senate condones misconduct, whether related to sexual harassment, gender bias, abuse of office, or disregard for parliamentary rules.
Saraki clarified that he was not taking sides but advocating for a credible resolution to uphold the Senate’s integrity.
“No leader or member should be allowed to undermine the sanctity of the institution. The Senate must remain strong, respected, and above reproach,” he concluded.
