Embattled Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has apologized to former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, following a heated altercation between Ezekwesili and Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi at a Senate hearing.
The clash occurred during Tuesday’s session of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, where a fresh petition from Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio was being discussed. Akpoti-Uduaghan has previously accused Akpabio of intimidating, maligning, and sexually harassing her.
Ezekwesili attended the hearing as a witness alongside Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, Abiola Akiode, and the petitioner, Zubairu Yakubu. Nwaebonyi, appearing as a witness for Akpabio, repeatedly interrupted Ezekwesili during the proceedings, prompting the former minister to ask him to “compose himself and stop making noise” before telling him to “shut up.”
In response, Nwaebonyi lashed out at Ezekwesili, calling her a “fool” and an “insult to womanhood,” and insisting she had no place at the hearing.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan apologized to Ezekwesili for the insults directed at her by Nwaebonyi, acknowledging that Ezekwesili had taken the brunt of the abuse on her behalf.
The Kogi senator also praised the former minister for her dedication to good governance, education, and democracy, saying, “Ma’am, I apologize for the insults. Know that you took them for me… for us … as a mother and a leader. You are a true icon of integrity, courage, and visionary leadership.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan continued, “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.”
