Saraki speaks on being offered automatic ticket, oil well

The Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has reacted to reports making the rounds that he was made juicy offers by President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress, APC, to remain in the ruling party.

Last week, the Senate President and other aggrieved members of the APC met the President and the party leadership at the Presidential Villa.

Following the meeting, there were speculations about juicy offers being made to him and his associates as part of the on-going discussions.

Saraki, in a statement on Sunday, by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, said the stories were not true.

He said, “I believe at this point, it is important for me to make some clarifications, end speculations and make my position clear.

“It is important for Nigerians to know that the discussions that I and many others of like minds are having with the Presidency and the leadership of All Progressives Congress (APC) is not about me and what I want.

“It involves the future of our country and her democracy. It is about making things better for our people.

“Though there are many speculations being peddled in the media, let it be known these discussions are not about me.

“Whatever has happened to me in the past has passed. Now that God in his infinite mercy has vindicated me, I have moved on, believing that we have all learnt our lessons.

“As I said in my statement following the Supreme Court Judgement on July 6, I cannot hold any grudge against any individual.

“I have forgiven all those who played any role in my persecution and likewise, I have asked for forgiveness from all those that I wronged in the past.

“Our focus should now be about Nigeria. The major issue on the table for discussion is how to strengthen our democracy, rebuild our economy, stop the spate of insecurity, improve the conditions of living of our people and generally chart a course for the development of this great country.

“We will be insulting Nigerians if, as the 2019 elections draw nearer, our deliberations is about personal benefits or how to pay compensation for wrongs done to an individual.

“As for my political future, we just need to continue to engage with others, listen to advice and exchange ideas because the decision is not that of mine alone.

“It is for all our supporters and associates to deliberate upon and take a decision based on the overall interest of our people. It is my prayers that Almighty God will guide us right in all our decisions and make a positive turn-around in our country”, he stated.