Bukola Saraki Senator denies calling Osinbajo ‘mere commissioner’

Earlier reports had it that Saraki had boycotted a peace meeting called by Osinbajo saying that as a former governor, he couldn’t be seen to answer the summons of a ‘mere commissioner.’

Senator Bukola Saraki has denied reports that he referred to Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo as a ‘mere commissioner.’

According to Sahara Reporters, Saraki had boycotted a peace meeting called by Osinbajo saying that as a former governor, he couldn’t be seen to answer the summons of a ‘mere commissioner.’

Osinbajo previously served as Commissioner of Justice in Lagos State before becoming VP.

In denying the reports however, Saraki stated that he has great respect for the person and office of His Excellency, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Osinbajo.

This was contained in a statement released by the Senator’s media aide, Bamikole Omishore.

It reads:

“The attention of Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki's media office has been drawn to a publication by an online tabloid which insinuated that "Senator Saraki Boycotts APC Leadership Meeting To be Chaired by VP Osinbajo.”

“We wish to categorically state that up to this very point 10:50pm, 8th of June 2015, senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki is yet to receive any official invitation from His Excellency Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria or through any other source for any meeting; political, social or otherwise.”

“Understanding the importance of last-minute consultation required for the inauguration of the 8th Assembly, Senator Saraki has been attending to meetings with colleagues and friends on the program for the 8th assembly.”

“Senator Saraki having been in public service in different capacity knows the importance of respecting the office and person of the Vice President. And therefore advise those spreading false news to cease and desist.”

“Senator Saraki therefore, uses this opportunity to assure His Excellency, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President of Federal Republic of Nigeria of his highest regards.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Saraki and Osinbajo’s party , is currently in crisis over its choice of candidates for the National Assembly leadership.