Akpabio-Natasha Dispute: Protecting the Institution Over Individuals - by Dr Bukola Saraki
posted 2nd March 2025
Akpabio-Natasha Dispute: Protecting the Institution Over Individuals - by Dr Bukola Saraki
The recent altercation in the Nigerian Senate between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked concerns about the integrity and public perception of the legislative body. Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, former Senate President and Waziri of Ilorin, has voiced his concerns, urging for a resolution that upholds the sanctity of the Senate rather than shielding individuals.
Saraki, in his statement, emphasised the need for all individuals connected to the National Assembly, including leaders, members, and workers, to safeguard the institution’s credibility. He highlighted that the Senate, as a key pillar of democracy, must maintain its reputation by ensuring that rules, constitutional provisions, and parliamentary conventions are strictly adhered to in resolving such disputes.
With public accusations already in play, Saraki proposed an open and transparent investigation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. He stressed that both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan should fully cooperate with the committee to ensure a fair and unbiased outcome. According to him, precedence exists for such measures, recalling his own experience during the 8th Senate when he voluntarily appeared before the Ethics Committee to refute allegations concerning an imported official vehicle. His willingness to subject himself to scrutiny demonstrated the importance of transparency in maintaining public trust in the Senate.
Saraki further stated that the 10th Senate should follow this precedent by ensuring a comprehensive and impartial probe. He warned against allowing the Senate to be perceived as a body that tolerates misconduct, including allegations of sexual harassment, gender bias, and abuse of office. Instead, he urged the leadership to ensure that any wrongdoing is identified and appropriately addressed while reinforcing the institution’s integrity.
Clarifying his stance, Saraki made it clear that he was not siding with either Akpabio or Akpoti-Uduaghan but was advocating for an investigation to uncover the truth. His primary concern, he reiterated, was preserving the Senate as an institution vital to democracy.
He called on all stakeholders to work towards strengthening the legislative body rather than undermining its credibility. No leader or member, he asserted, should be permitted to compromise the Senate’s sanctity, whether overtly or covertly.
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