Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has apologised to Oby Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, over her confrontation with Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, a senator representing Ebonyi North.
Chronicle NG reports that Ezekwesili and Nwaebonyi engaged in verbal slurs on Tuesday during a Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions hearing on a new petition filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Kogi lawmaker has regularly accused Akpabio of intimidating, defaming, and sexually abusing her.
As a witness in the case, Ezekwesili appeared before the Senate Committee hearing on Tuesday with Abiola Akiode, attorney for Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the petitioner, Zubairu Yakubu.
Nwaebonyi, who testified for Akpabio, often interrupted the former minister during the inquiry.
Ezekwesili then requested the Senate Deputy Chief Whip to “compose himself and stop making noise” before saying, “Please, will you shut up?”
Following the remarks, Nwaebonyi lashed out at the former minister.
Responding, Nwaebonyi said, “You’re a fool. What do you mean? Why are you talking to me like that? I will not take it. You’re an insult to womanhood. People like you cannot be here.”
Speaking on the clash in an X post on Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan apologised to Ezekwesili over the insults hurled at her by the Imo lawmaker.
The Kogi senator also applauded the former minister for her unwavering commitment to good governance, education and democracy.
She wrote, “Ma’am, I apologise 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.”
