Saraki Clarifies Statement on Akpabio Over Due Process In Senate

Saraki Clarifies Statement On Akpabio Over Due Process In Senate

Saraki Responds To Akpabio’s Claim, Rejects Ethnic Politics In Senate Dispute

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has described as “cheap politics and trivializing a serious issue” the claim by current Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, that the call for transparency in investigating accusations made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is an attempt to remove a Niger Delta person from office.

In a statement signed by Yusuph Olaniyonu, the head of Saraki’s media office in Abuja, Saraki urged Akpabio to carefully review his press statement from March 1, 2025, in which he did not suggest the resignation of the Senate President. Instead, Saraki recommended that Akpabio ensure a transparent investigation into the allegations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan to protect the integrity of the Senate.

Saraki emphasized that his earlier comments were aimed at ensuring the credibility of the legislative process, not at undermining Akpabio personally. “Rather, I advised that Akpabio act in the best interest of the legislative institution by ensuring that no reasonable person is left in doubt that the allegations raised by the Senator were investigated and justifiably dispensed with,” he said.

Saraki’s media office also responded to Akpabio’s comments on Friday, where he addressed leaders of certain ethnic youth groups, claiming that individuals from Kwara and Adamawa States sought his removal because of his Niger Delta background. Saraki noted that, while he could have ignored Akpabio’s remarks, he felt compelled to respond due to the serious nature of the accusations, which, if mishandled, could damage the reputation of the National Assembly.

Dr. Saraki clarified that his earlier statement did not call for Akpabio’s resignation. “Instead, I emphasized the need for a thorough and open investigation, given the severity of the claims of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and abuse of office raised by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. The integrity of the Senate as an institution is paramount,” Saraki stressed.

He further explained that the intervention was not about the validity of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations but about ensuring that any such allegations be handled transparently and in accordance with established legal and procedural guidelines. Saraki also pointed out that there are existing constitutional, legal, and procedural frameworks for handling such investigations.

Saraki reiterated that his position was not influenced by Akpabio’s party affiliation or regional background but was instead based on his dedication to the health of the legislative institution. He argued that the issue should not be politicized or tied to ethnic sentiments. “It is crucial that this matter is not used to foster political division or regional bias,” Saraki said.

He emphasized that the handling of allegations such as sexual harassment or gender discrimination is of utmost importance in an institution like the Senate, which should lead by example. Saraki concluded, “An open and honest investigation will not only ensure justice but also enhance public trust in the National Assembly, both domestically and internationally.”

The ongoing dispute, which began with a seat arrangement issue in the Senate, escalated after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim he has denied. The matter further intensified when the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months on Thursday for violating the Senate’s rules.

Saraki’s statement closed with a reminder of his commitment to defending the integrity of the legislative process, urging that the truth be pursued transparently for the benefit of the nation and its institutions.