Senate President, Bukola Saraki has raised the alarm that former Leader of the Senate, Ali Ndume is attempting to smear him by dragging his name into the issue of a bullet-proof Range Rover SUV impounded by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). 

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Yusuph Olaniyonu, the Senate President said Senator Ndume lied outright against him by claiming that the vehicle belonged to him. 

The statement further said neither Saraki nor the Senate has anything to do with the vehicle as it was a matter between the Customs and the supplier. 

The statement reads: “A supplier was engaged by the Senate to supply a vehicle. While transferring the vehicle between Lagos and Abuja, it was impounded by the Customs. 

“We believe that is an issue between the supplier and the Customs because the Senate has not taken delivery. So, why is somebody trying to drag in the name of Saraki into the issue". 

“The documents on the vehicle are there for the general public to view and make their conclusions. Now, that the matter has been referred to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, all the facts will be out.” 

It should be recalled that the Senate Tuesday resolved to investigate reports that the impounded vehicle belongs to Saraki and was a reason why the upper chamber is engaged in a war of attrition over wearing of uniform by the Comptroller General of Customs, Hameed Ali.