Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has responded to the shocking, heated exchange in the Senate involving former Minister of Education Dr (Mrs) Obiageli Ezekwesili.
The clash happened on Tuesday during a Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee hearing on sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha.
During the session, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi of Ebonyi North and Ezekwesili got into a verbal confrontation. Ezekwesili told Nwaebonyi to “shut up,” prompting the senator to call her a “hooligan.” She responded by calling him a “disgrace to the Senate,” and he fired back, labeling her a “disgrace to womanhood,” then went into a protracted tirade against the Ezekwesili.
This!!! This is someone that should be recalled!🚶🏿♀️ Senator Nwaebonyi Hurls Abusive Words At Oby Ezekwesili, Calling Her ‘An Insult to Womanhood,’ During Senate Hearing Investigating Sen. Natasha’s Sexual Harassment Petition Against Sen. Akpabio pic.twitter.com/0lvjbU7HP3
— Adeola Fayehun (@AdeolaFayehun) March 25, 2025
Natasha Calls Ezekwesili a True Leader
On Wednesday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan posted on social media, acknowledging Ezekwesili’s courage and integrity. She apologized for the insults directed at her, saying the former minister took them on behalf of women fighting for justice.
“Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, Ma’am, I apologize for the insults. Know you took them for me… for us… as a mother and as a leader. Know that you are a true icon of integrity, courage, and visionary leadership. Your unwavering commitment to good governance, education, and democracy continues to inspire generations. A champion of accountability… Nigerians appreciate you. I celebrate your brilliance, resilience, and selfless service. You are a hero,” she wrote.
In response, Ezekwesili reasserted her long assurance to Natasha since the scandal broke that she would not be alone in her fight against Senate leadership.
Very kind words, dear Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan @NatashaAkpoti ! 🫂
— Oby Ezekwesili (@obyezeks) March 26, 2025
Yet to me, a torrent of insults from any source is but a little price to pay in our resolve to see a Nigerian that Becomes.
Our daughters and granddaughters must never inherit battles and wars we should… https://t.co/8mAG4gyRX9 pic.twitter.com/FylCL1EaLS
This incident has drawn mixed reactions from Nigerians. Some praised Ezekwesili for standing her ground, while others criticized the senators for engaging in personal attacks rather than addressing the allegations against Akpabio.
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