By Fatima Saka
Amid recent tensions between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti, Senator Rufai Sani Hanga who represents Kano Central, has described the Senate as one big family, emphasizing the need for reconciliation.
Speaking with journalists on Friday in Abuja, Hanga, a seasoned politician and accountant, expressed confidence that the differences between Akpabio and Akpoti could be resolved amicably.
“The Senate is a family. As a family, our duty is to reconcile differences. If matter were not in court, I would have personally intervened because I know both of them well,” Hanga stated.
He further highlighted his close ties with both lawmakers, referring to Natasha as a daughter due to his long-standing relationship with her father.
“Natasha’s father and I served together in the House of Representatives. He was a member of my committee on water resources when I was Chairman. We were close, and I still consider her my daughter,” he said.
Speaking on his relationship with Akpabio, Hanga described the Senate President as a friend and leader, while also emphasizing that all senators are equals, with Akpabio holding a leadership role by virtue of the Senate’s structure.
READ ALSO: MARAN ICTN Roundtable: Consensus on Benefits, Divided on Implementation
Vice President Approves Desk Offices for Islamic Banks in State Pilgrims Welfare Boards
Recalling a personal encounter, Hanga shared an experience that underscored the close ties among senators.
“During one of our private travels, the Senate President asked me to accompany him to visit a friend whose wife had just given birth. We agreed, and when we arrived, we realized it was Natasha who had welcomed a new baby. We congratulated her, had dinner together, and left. That’s how close we all are,” he recounted.
Hanga’s remarks reinforce the idea that, despite occasional disagreements, the Senate remains a united body where reconciliation and mutual respect prevail.
