Former President of the senate, Bukola Saraki has called for a transparent investigation into allegations of sexual advances made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the current Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement on Saturday, Saraki emphasized that the controversy has negatively impacted the integrity, image, and public perception of the Senate.
He urged the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to conduct an open, transparent, and honest investigation, ensuring that neither party is shielded from scrutiny.
Saraki cautioned both parties and their supporters within and outside the Senate to be mindful of their actions, reactions, and statements, stressing that the institution’s credibility must not be undermined.
Drawing from his own experience as Senate President, Saraki recalled how he voluntarily submitted himself to an open investigation when accused of importing an official car without paying customs duties.
He noted that his public testimony and the committee’s transparent handling of the case ultimately disproved the allegation.
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The former Senate President urged the leadership of the 10th Senate to follow this precedent, stressing that a transparent inquiry would dispel any perception of the Senate tolerating sexual harassment, gender bias, abuse of office, or disorderliness.
According to him, due process must be followed to ensure that any wrongdoing is identified and addressed appropriately.
He further emphasized that the Constitution, Senate rules, and parliamentary conventions must be strictly adhered to in resolving the matter.
He urged both parties, to fully cooperate with the investigation and present their claims before the committee.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
