Saraki: Why Senate is under attack

Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, yesterday, raised the alarm that the Senate was being blackmailed by unnamed persons, who he said were aggrieved, following a resolution passed by the Red Chamber which ordered the reversal of the controversial vehicle verification policy introduced by the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).
Saraki made the claim when he appeared before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, investigating the alleged importation of a N298 million bullet proof Ranger Rover Sport vehicle by him.
The probe which kicked off at 1.17pm, had about eight lawmakers who are members of the committee in attendance.
Saraki warned those fighting the parliament to stop, adding that democracy cannot thrive if institutions of government were weakened.
“I believe that we must continue to build strong institutions. I am not an importer and at no time did I import any vehicle. It was done through the National Assembly. I did not even order that any vehicle should be imported. What they are alleging is not true.
“There is no document that bears my name. I am here to clear my name. This policy had no value and that was why this motion came up. Those who want to fight back went back to see if they can have something to blackmail us.
“Honestly, this is a great day for our democracy and for the Senate President to appear. Today, it is me, tomorrow, it could be anybody. Tomorrow, I will not be here. When we leave here, we need to leave a legacy. Institutions can only be strong when the parliament is strong.
“That is why I came here, no matter how ridiculous it may have appeared. I am also happy that I came here with Senators who are university graduates,” he said.
He left at about 3.05pm.