Saraki Slams Akpabio For Politicizing Call For Transparent Investigation Into Sexual Harassment Allegations
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio for allegedly turning a serious issue into “cheap politics” after Akpabio claimed that calls for an open and transparent investigation into allegations against him were an attempt to remove a Niger Delta politician from office.
Saraki, in a statement signed by his media aide Yusuph Olaniyonu, maintained that his position was not about Akpabio’s resignation but about protecting the integrity of the Senate by ensuring a thorough investigation into the allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“Perception is Reality” – Saraki Advises Akpabio
Saraki dismissed Akpabio’s claims that the push for accountability was a ploy by individuals from Kwara and Adamawa States to unseat him. He described this as a deliberate attempt to “politicize and trivialize” an issue that concerns the integrity of the legislature.
“Dr. Saraki never called on the Senate President to resign or step aside. Rather, he urged him to act in the best interest of the institution by ensuring that no reasonable person is left with any doubt that the allegations raised by Senator Natasha were thoroughly and justifiably investigated.”
The former Senate President said his intervention wasn’t about Senator Natasha’s credibility but about protecting the Senate’s public image.He stressed that the Senate must not appear to tolerate sexual harassment, gender bias, or abuse of power.
“Perception is reality, and Akpabio must avoid creating the impression that the Senate is trying to cover up a serious issue.”
Saraki Rejects Ethnic and Political Sentiments
Saraki made it clear that his stance was not politically motivated, nor was it influenced by ethnic or regional considerations. He insisted that his advice to Akpabio would remain the same regardless of the Senate President’s political party or geopolitical zone.
“It is disingenuous and crude to describe Dr. Saraki’s comments along ethnic or political lines. This is not about APC versus PDP or South-South versus North-Central. It is about doing what is right.”
He also warned Akpabio against exploiting ethnic sentiments to deflect attention from the core issue, arguing that this approach would not serve the Senate President’s own interest or that of the legislative institution.
Call for Transparent Investigation
Saraki repeated his call for an independent, open probe into Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations to ensure transparency.
He said transparent handling of the issue would increase public trust in the Senate and its leadership.
“When sexual harassment or gender bias is alleged, it’s a chance for the legislature to demonstrate openness and fairness.”
He added that those who defend the legislature’s integrity will always speak out for truth and accountability.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy started with a seating dispute in the Senate and escalated when Senator Natasha accused Akpabio of harassment.
Senate President Akpabio denied the sexual harassment allegation made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
On Thursday, March 7, the Senate suspended Senator Natasha for six months for breaking the Senate’s Standing Rules.
Her suspension has intensified tensions and deepened divisions within the Senate, also known as the Red Chambers.
Read Also: Natasha v Akpabio: The Legal Issues
