Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called for a transparent and open investigation into the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Saraki expressed concern over the negative impact the faceoff could have on the integrity and reputation of the Senate, urging all parties involved to prioritize the protection of the institution.
In a statement shared on his official X page, Saraki emphasized that the Senate, as one of the three arms of government, should be protected from actions that might tarnish its image.
He urged both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, along with their supporters, to consider the consequences of their actions and to follow the Senate’s rules, constitutional law, and parliamentary conventions to resolve the matter.
Saraki further called for an open investigation by the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to ascertain the truth of the allegations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio.
He stressed that only through such an investigation could the Senate avoid being seen as an institution that tolerates misconduct such as sexual harassment, gender bias, or abuse of office.
“I believe that an open, transparent, and honest investigation is the only way to clear the air and uphold the integrity of the Senate,” Saraki stated. “The resolution must be conducted without bias and must strictly follow the law.”
Drawing from his own experience, Saraki recalled a time during his tenure as Senate President when he was accused of importing an official vehicle without paying customs duties.
He explained how the issue was thoroughly investigated by the Senate’s Ethics Committee, in full public view, which ultimately cleared him of any wrongdoing.
“This is not the first time a Senate President has had to appear before the Ethics Committee.
“When I was accused of importing an official car without paying customs duty, the matter was investigated transparently, and it was clear that the allegations were false,” Saraki said.
Saraki argued that such transparency is necessary to prevent the Senate from being viewed as complicit in unethical practices.
He reiterated that his call for an investigation was not an endorsement of either party’s claims, but rather an appeal to ensure that the truth is revealed.
“I am not taking sides in this matter,” Saraki clarified.
“My position is that the integrity of the Senate must be protected by conducting a thorough and unbiased investigation.”
The former Senate President concluded by stressing the importance of safeguarding the Senate as an institution, urging all involved to put aside personal interests and work towards strengthening the integrity and sanctity of the legislative body.
