Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has cautioned Senate President Godswill Akpabio against politicizing the call for due process in the Senate. Saraki’s warning comes after Akpabio alleged that certain individuals from Kwara and Adamawa states want him removed because he is from the Niger Delta region.
Saraki clarified that his previous statement on the matter did not suggest Akpabio’s resignation, but rather emphasized the need for a transparent and open investigation into the allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Akpabio has denied the allegations of sexual harassment.
The dispute between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan began with a seating arrangement issue in the Red Chambers and escalated into allegations of sexual harassment. The Senate has since suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months for violating its rules.
Saraki urged Akpabio to act in the best interest of the legislative institution by ensuring that the allegations are investigated and dispensed with in a manner that leaves no doubt about the integrity of the process. He also emphasized that the issue is not about Akpoti-Uduaghan or her claims, but about the need for an honest and transparent investigation to protect the image of the institution.
Saraki’s statement also highlighted the importance of addressing issues of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and mistreatment of women in the legislative institution. He emphasized that these issues evoke the pains experienced by thousands of women in society and that the institution must handle them with openness and transparency to ensure justice is done.
In conclusion, Saraki reiterated his call for an open, transparent, and honest investigation into the allegations, emphasizing that this is necessary to maintain the integrity of the legislative institution and ensure that justice is done.
