Former Kwara State Governor and ex-Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has dismissed allegations made by current Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, suggesting that certain individuals are plotting his removal due to sexual harassment accusations leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Saraki labeled Akpabio’s claims as “cheap politics” and an attempt to “trivialize a serious issue.”
Akpabio’s Allegations
During a meeting with youth group leaders in Abuja, Akpabio insinuated that individuals from Adamawa and Kwara states were eager for his ouster. While he did not specify names, political observers speculated that he was referring to Saraki and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who hail from Kwara and Adamawa states, respectively.
Saraki’s Response
In a statement issued by his media head, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki emphasized that his call for a transparent investigation into the allegations was not an attempt to unseat Akpabio or undermine the Niger Delta. He urged Akpabio to reread his March 1 statement, stressing that nowhere did he call for the Senate President’s resignation. Saraki argued that handling such allegations with transparency is crucial to preserving the Senate’s credibility. He warned against exploiting ethnic and political divisions, urging Akpabio to focus on ensuring justice is done.
SERAP’s Stance
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has condemned Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, calling it unlawful and a violation of her constitutional rights. In an open letter dated March 8, signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP urged Akpabio to reverse the decision or face legal action. The organization argued that punishing a senator for speaking out undermines democracy and discourages open discourse in the legislature. SERAP gave Akpabio a 48-hour ultimatum to reverse the suspension or face legal proceedings.
Senate’s Position
The Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, citing violations of Senate rules, including speaking without permission and refusing her assigned seat. Her salary and allowances were also withheld for the duration of the suspension. The Senate’s ethics committee rejected her sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio, citing procedural rule violations. The unfolding events highlight tensions within Nigeria’s legislative body, with calls for transparency and adherence to due process at the forefront. As the situation develops, the actions of Senate leadership and oversight bodies like SERAP will be pivotal in determining the Senate’s commitment to justice and institutional integrity.
