Ethics Committee Hearing on Akpabio Sexual Harassment Allegations Descends Into Chaos
The Senate Ethics Committee’s hearing into sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio turned contentious on Wednesday as Senator Nwaebonyi launched a verbal attack on former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili, calling her “an insult to womanhood.”
The proceedings, which were meant to investigate suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition against Akpabio, quickly devolved into disorder when Ezekwesili, appearing as a witness, presented evidence supporting Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims.
Senator Nwaebonyi, a known ally of Akpabio, interrupted Ezekwesili’s testimony, shouting, “You are a disgrace to Nigerian women! How dare you come here to peddle lies against our leader?” The outburst prompted the committee chairman to call for order as security personnel intervened to prevent further escalation.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended for six months after making the allegations, maintained her composure during the hearing. “I stand by every word of my petition,” she stated. “No amount of intimidation will silence me.”
The committee has adjourned temporarily to restore order, with proceedings expected to resume later today. Civil society groups and gender rights activists have condemned Nwaebonyi’s conduct, calling it “a blatant attempt to undermine a serious investigation into sexual misconduct.”
