Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has weighed in on the escalating dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Central Senatorial District representative, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging all parties involved to protect the integrity of the Senate.
In a statement shared via his official X page on Saturday, Saraki expressed concern over the negative impact of the ongoing confrontation on the reputation and public perception of the legislative body.
He called on both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, as well as their supporters, to be mindful of their actions and how they reflect on the institution.
“This situation saddens me because of its negative impact on the integrity, sanctity, image, and public perception of the institution,” Saraki stated.
“I believe that everyone who has been associated with the National Assembly whether as a leader, member, or staff should strive to protect these values, which make the institution the foremost among the three arms of government.”
The former Senate President emphasized the need for an open and transparent investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Akpabio.
He urged the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to handle the matter with neutrality and due process, stressing that only a fair inquiry would prevent the institution from being perceived as tolerating gender bias, abuse of office, or misconduct.
“At this point, with the public claims made by the senator, the right measure to take is to institute an open, transparent, and honest investigation.
Both parties must submit to the probe, fully cooperate with the committee, and present their claims before it,” he asserted.
Saraki cited a precedent from his own tenure, when he was accused of importing an official car without paying customs duty.
He noted that he voluntarily submitted to a Senate Ethics Committee probe, which was conducted in the full glare of the media, ultimately clearing his name. He urged the 10th Senate to follow a similar approach to resolve the current dispute.
“In my case, the decision to allow an open investigation and subject myself to it was not an easy one. It was humbling, but I realized that was the best decision, and in the end, I am happy I travelled that route,” he recalled.
He clarified that his stance was not in support of either Akpabio or Akpoti-Uduaghan, but rather a call for due process to be followed in order to preserve the sanctity of the Senate.
“Let me make it clear without any ambiguity that I am neither stating that Akpabio is guilty of anything nor am I expressing the opinion that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is right in her actions and claims.
My position is that an investigation is needed to find out the truth and protect the integrity of the Senate,” Saraki emphasized.
The former Senate President concluded by calling on all lovers of democracy to safeguard the Senate from being undermined by political infighting and personal disputes.
He reiterated that the credibility of the legislature should take precedence over any individual’s interests.
“For me, the institution of the Senate is so important, sacred, and pre-eminent. All lovers of democracy should always work to strengthen it.
No leader or member should be allowed to openly or surreptitiously work to subvert its sanctity,” Saraki said.
His remarks come as tensions continue to rise over Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Akpabio, making it imperative for the Senate leadership to take decisive steps to address the matter transparently.