Saraki Alleges Bullying and Harassment by Buhari’s Administration During His Senate Presidency
Houston, Texas, May 19, 2025 – Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has accused the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari of bullying, harassing, and blackmailing the 8th National Assembly, which he led from 2015 to 2019. Saraki made the allegations during the 2025 Reunion Gala of the King’s College Old Boys Association (KCOBA) in Houston, Texas, lamenting how the executive arm deliberately frustrated the legislature’s efforts to pass meaningful laws.
Key Allegations
Saraki revealed that the Buhari-led Executive systematically undermined the National Assembly’s independence by:
- Silencing, harassing, assaulting, bullying, and blackmailing lawmakers under his leadership.
- Frustrating the passage of critical bills, initiatives, and recommendations that would have benefited Nigerian society.
- Blocking key legislations such as amendments to the Public Procurement Act aimed at boosting local industries.
- Creating an environment where lawmakers were pressured to align with the executive or face political persecution.
He described the legislature under his tenure as “like orphans,” with both the elite and ordinary Nigerians remaining silent and indifferent to the executive’s overreach.
Political Context and Personal Experience
Saraki’s strained relationship with Buhari’s administration began when he defied the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership to become Senate President with support from opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senators. His defection from APC to PDP in 2018 further worsened relations. During his tenure, Saraki faced multiple politically motivated legal challenges, which many viewed as attempts by the executive to intimidate and weaken him.
He stated,
“I could have agreed with everything the Presidency under Buhari wanted and cut deals with them all the way. I would have been a good ally. Instead, I chose the harder path — the one that put the interest of the people and the institution above personal comfort.”
Impact on Legislative Independence
Saraki lamented that the fear of harassment has led subsequent Senate Presidents to become subservient to the executive, turning the National Assembly into a rubber stamp. He argued that this dynamic undermines Nigeria’s democracy and weakens institutional checks and balances.
Call for Civic Engagement and Institutional Strengthening
Highlighting the broader political challenges, Saraki urged Nigerians, especially professionals, to stop avoiding politics and engage actively to produce transformative leadership. He criticized the culture of weak institutions and reliance on “government scammers,” calling for intentional, strategic, and people-driven governance reforms.
Recognition and Legacy
Saraki’s remarks came as he was honored with the Rex E. O. Akpofure Award for Outstanding Achievement at the KCOBA event, attended by prominent Nigerians including the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II.
