Senator Natasha Controversy: Saraki Clarifies ‘Removal’ Remark, Criticizes Akpabio

Senator Natasha Controversy: Saraki Clarifies ‘Removal’ Remark, Criticizes Akpabio

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has criticized the current Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, following Akpabio’s claim that Saraki seeks to remove a Niger Delta individual from the Senate Presidency. Saraki clarified that his previous call for a transparent investigation into the allegations raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio was misunderstood as an attempt to unseat him……..READ MORE

In a statement issued by Saraki’s media office, he urged Akpabio to carefully review his March 1, 2025, statement, which, according to Saraki, never called for Akpabio’s resignation. Saraki accused Akpabio of politicizing the issue, distorting the matter at hand, and creating a misleading impression.

Saraki emphasized that his intervention was about ensuring a transparent investigation into serious allegations, including sexual harassment and abuse of office, rather than a personal attack on Akpabio. He reiterated that it was crucial for the Senate to handle such allegations with openness, as this would protect the institution’s integrity.

Saraki rejected the suggestion that his call for a fair investigation was based on regional or political differences, stating that the issue was not about Akpabio’s background but about defending the dignity of the Senate. He also highlighted the importance of a thorough investigation to maintain public trust in the Senate, stressing that such matters should be handled with the utmost seriousness and transparency.

Saraki reaffirmed his belief in the need for a fair and open inquiry into the allegations, insisting that the Senate must not be seen as an institution that tolerates misconduct, including sexual harassment and gender discrimination.

This dispute escalated when Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, leading to her suspension from the Senate for six months. Despite Akpabio’s denials, the allegations have sparked significant debate.