Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio for allegedly politicizing and trivializing the serious concerns Nigerians have expressed about due process in the National Assembly.
This comes after Akpabio claimed that recent calls for accountability over allegations leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were part of a plot to remove him from office due to his Niger Delta origins.
Saraki emphasized that he never called for Akpabio’s resignation but rather advised that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations be thoroughly investigated to ensure transparency and protect the Senate’s integrity. He urged Akpabio to avoid treating the allegations in a manner that would create the perception that the Senate is trying to cover up issues related to sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and abuse of office.
Akpabio’s comments, made while addressing leaders of some “youth ethnic groups,” implied that the demand for due process was politically motivated. Saraki condemned this tactic, arguing that politicizing such allegations undermines the integrity and credibility of the Senate.
You may also like: Senate Clears Air on Natasha’s Suspension, Denies Sexual Harassment Claims
Saraki’s stance on the matter is rooted in the importance of safeguarding the credibility of the legislative institution, rather than personal or political rivalry. He emphasized that Akpabio should face the reality on the ground and do what is right, rather than exploiting ethnic sentiments, political divisions, or regional proclivities.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations touched on issues that resonate deeply with women across the country, making it imperative that they be handled with utmost seriousness. Saraki believes that when sensitive matters suggesting sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and mistreatment of women come up, they evoke the pains that thousands of women experience daily.
Saraki urged Akpabio to allow for an open and transparent investigation, rather than politicizing the issue. He emphasized that his suggestions are for the benefit of the legislative institution, rather than personal or political g
