Saraki To Akpabio: Ensure Transparency In Senate Investigations

Former Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has criticized current Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s remarks, labeling them as an attempt to politicize and trivialize serious allegations. Saraki clarified that his call for an open and transparent investigation into accusations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was not a move to remove Akpabio from office, as suggested.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki urged Akpabio to carefully review his press statement dated March 1, 2025, to understand that he never suggested his resignation. Instead, Saraki emphasized the importance of ensuring that due process is followed in investigating the allegations against Akpabio.

Saraki’s media office raised concerns over Akpabio’s recent statement that certain individuals from Kwara and Adamawa States are plotting against him due to his Niger Delta origins. According to Saraki, such claims distort the real issue, which is the credibility and integrity of the Nigerian Senate.

He further stressed that his intervention was not based on political affiliations or regional backgrounds but rather on the need to uphold the Senate’s credibility. Saraki noted that any allegations of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and abuse of office must be thoroughly and transparently investigated to maintain public trust.

Highlighting constitutional and legislative guidelines, Saraki reaffirmed that his stance remains unchanged, irrespective of the individuals involved. He warned against using ethnic or political narratives to divert attention from the need for accountability in the Senate.

Additionally, Saraki emphasized that allegations of sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination resonate with many women across the country, and handling such issues with transparency strengthens the credibility of democratic institutions.

Reiterating his position, Saraki called for an open and impartial investigation to demonstrate that the Senate does not tolerate misconduct. He emphasized that a transparent process would enhance confidence in Nigeria’s legislative system among both citizens and the international community.

Saraki concluded by stating that he remains committed to defending the integrity of democratic institutions and will continue to advocate for transparency and accountability in governance.

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