ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has applauded former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili for standing her ground during a tense face-off at a Senate Committee hearing on Tuesday.
In a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan described Ezekwesili as a beacon of integrity and accountability, acknowledging the verbal attacks the former minister endured on her behalf.
“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,” she wrote.
Ezekwesili, in her response, reiterated her dedication to fighting for justice and accountability in Nigeria.
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“A torrent of insults from any source is but a little price to pay in our resolve to see a Nigeria that becomes.
“Our daughters and granddaughters must never inherit battles and wars we should have fought and won for them. An unjust society that silences women and vulnerable people can never become,” she wrote.
The dramatic exchange unfolded on Tuesday when Ezekwesili and Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal representative, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, appeared before the Senate Committee investigating sexual harassment allegations involving Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
During the proceedings, a heated argument erupted between Ezekwesili and Ebonyi North Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi. The confrontation escalated into a shouting match, with name-calling and gender-based insults exchanged.
Ezekwesili, a prominent human rights advocate, challenged the committee’s fairness, accusing its chairman, Senator Nedamwem Imasuen, of bias. She argued that he should step aside to ensure justice and transparency.
Ezekwesili criticized the Senate for diverting attention from the core issue of sexual harassment.
She however, insisted that Akpoti-Uduaghan deserved justice and that powerful individuals should not be allowed to silence calls for accountability.
She expressed relief that the heated exchange was publicly documented, emphasizing that she would not tolerate patriarchal intimidation.
“This encounter shows what women endure in many instances,” she said, reinforcing her stance against systemic oppression.