Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called for an open and transparent investigation into the ongoing rift between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a statement posted on his official X page, Saraki expressed concern over the dispute’s negative impact on the Senate’s integrity, urging all parties to prioritize the institution’s reputation over personal interests.
“This situation saddens me because of its negative impact on the integrity, sanctity, image, and public perception of the institution,” Saraki wrote. He emphasized that Senate rules, national laws, and parliamentary conventions must guide the resolution process.
Saraki called on the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to launch a thorough investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Akpabio. He stressed that only an unbiased probe would protect the Senate from being seen as condoning misconduct, including sexual harassment, gender bias, and abuse of power.
Drawing from his own tenure as Senate President, Saraki recalled how he faced allegations of importing an official vehicle without customs duty. He voluntarily subjected himself to an open investigation, which ultimately cleared his name. He urged the current Senate leadership to adopt a similar approach.
Saraki maintained a neutral stance, stating, “I am neither saying Akpabio is guilty nor asserting that Akpoti-Uduaghan is right. My position is that an investigation is needed to find out the truth and protect the integrity of the Senate.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to upholding the sanctity of the legislative arm, urging lawmakers to strengthen democratic institutions rather than weaken them through internal conflicts.
