A former governor of Kwara state, and senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District in Nigeria's upper legislative chamber, Bukola Saraki, has issued a statement debunking reports that he snubbed a truce meeting called by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

Mr. Saraki is a leading contender for the presidency of the Nigerian Senate, but he is not the official candidate of his party, the All Progressives Congress, which is rooting for his main challenger, Ahmed Lawan.

A report had indicated that Mr. Saraki boycotted a meeting called by Mr. Osinbajo to explore the possibilities of the APC having a consensus candidate ahead of the election of principal officers of the Senate and the House of Representatives Tuesday.

But the former governor has now issued a statement, saying he received no invitation to any meeting called by the vice president.

He also denied making disparaging comments about the vice president.

Read full statement below.

SENATOR SARAKI HAS GREAT RESPECT FOR THE PERSON AND OFFICE OF HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF OSINBAJO VICE PRESIDENT OF FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

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.

Signed: Bamikole Omishore

SA Media & Advocacy