Saraki
Natasha: Saraki Criticizes Akpabio for Politicizing Allegations, Calls for Transparent Probe
Former Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki has criticized current Senate President Godswill Akpabio for allegedly politicizing and trivializing calls for a transparent investigation into serious allegations raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki dismissed Akpabio’s claims that the calls for due process were part of a political plot to remove a Niger Delta politician from office.
Saraki clarified that he never called for Akpabio’s resignation but instead urged the Senate President to ensure that allegations of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and abuse of office are thoroughly and transparently investigated. He emphasized that his intervention was aimed at preserving the integrity of the Senate as an institution, rather than taking sides in the dispute.
“Dr. Saraki never called on the Senate President to resign or step aside,” the statement read. “Rather, he urged the Senate President to be conscious of the fact that perception is reality and to avoid creating the impression that the Senate is trying to cover up serious allegations.”
Saraki stressed that the Senate should follow established constitutional and legal processes to address the allegations, warning against exploiting ethnic or regional sentiments. He argued that such a sensitive matter should be handled with openness and transparency to ensure justice is not only done but seen to be done.
“When issues of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and mistreatment of women arise, they must be addressed with the seriousness they deserve,” Saraki stated. “The Senate has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to justice and fairness by conducting an honest and unbiased investigation.”
Saraki reiterated his call for an open and transparent investigation, emphasizing that such a step would bolster public and international confidence in the Senate. He maintained that the institution must not be perceived as tolerant of misconduct or abuse of power.
“An open, transparent, and honest investigation is still needed to ensure that the Senate is not cast in the image of an institution that tolerates sexual harassment, gender bias, or abuse of office,” the statement concluded. “This is essential for maintaining the credibility and integrity of our legislative institution.”
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