Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki has given his two cents on the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Gatekeepers News reports that Saraki in a statement released on Saturday, highlighted the need to protect integrity of the Senate rather than focusing on those involved.
Recall that Natasha had in an interview on Arise TV on Friday, alleged that her ordeal with Akpabio began after she declined his sexual advances.
Reacting, Saraki expressed concern over the impact of the controversy on the public perception of Senate and urged all parties to be mindful of their actions and how they affect the parliament’s reputation.
He said, “I believe that everyone associated with the National Assembly—leaders, members, and workers—should be committed to protecting its integrity, sanctity, and image.”
Saraki called for a transparent and unbiased investigation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to resolve the matter fairly.
The former senate president emphasised that both parties must fully cooperate to ensure due process is followed.
He added, “This is not the first time a Senate President would appear before the Ethics Committee. During the 8th Senate, when a senator falsely accused me of importing an official car without paying customs duty, I submitted to an open investigation. The committee reviewed the facts, and the truth prevailed.”
Saraki urged the Senate to uphold similar transparency in handling the allegations to prevent the institution from being perceived as one that tolerates misconduct, gender bias, or abuse of office.
He added, “We must not allow the Senate to be cast as an institution that encourages sexual harassment, disregard for standing orders, or lack of orderliness. If any wrongdoing is found, it should be addressed appropriately.”
The ex-Senate head clarified that his stance was not about taking sides but ensuring that due process is followed to safeguard the Senate’s credibility.
He said, “For me, the institution of the Senate is sacred and must be strengthened. No leader or member should be allowed to undermine its sanctity.”
