Alleged Harassment: “This Is Not the Time to Exploit Ethnic Sentiments” — Saraki Knocks Akpabio

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio for politicising serious concerns raised over due process in the Nigerian Senate. Saraki’s remarks came in response to Akpabio’s claim that the calls for accountability—following allegations made by Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan—were part of a plot to unseat him due to his Niger Delta origin.

In a statement released by his media office and shared via his X handle, Saraki addressed Akpabio’s comment to leaders of some youth ethnic groups, in which the Senate President alleged that individuals from Kwara and Adamawa states were targeting him. Saraki firmly denied these claims and clarified that he never called for Akpabio’s resignation. Instead, he urged that the allegations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan be thoroughly investigated to uphold transparency and protect the Senate’s credibility.

Saraki stressed the importance of avoiding actions that may give the public the impression that the Senate is attempting to suppress serious allegations of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and abuse of office. He reiterated that his position was not motivated by political rivalry but by a commitment to preserving the integrity of the legislative institution.

“This issue is definitely not one in which Akpabio should exploit ethnic sentiments, political division, or regional proclivity. This will neither be in his own interest nor that of the institution over which he is presiding. He should face the reality on ground and do what is right,” Saraki stated.

He further highlighted the broader societal relevance of the allegations, noting that the issues raised resonate with the daily experiences of many Nigerian women. Saraki described the Senate as a platform where such matters should be addressed with transparency and seriousness, to ensure justice is both done and seen to be done.