Am A Senator Of The Federal Republic; By Social Stratification, I Am Higher Than Oby Ezekwensili — Nwaebonyi

In a dramatic turn of events at a recent Senate hearing, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, strongly defended his actions following a verbal altercation with Dr. Obi Ezekwesili, a former Minister and a key witness in a case involving sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The clash occurred during a hearing regarding allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Akpabio of sexual harassment. The situation escalated into a shouting match when Dr. Ezekwesili, who was present as a witness, became involved. According to eyewitness reports and video footage, both sides exchanged insults, with Senator Nwaebonyi accusing Ezekwesili of disrespecting him.

In his response to the incident, Nwaebonyi argued that by “social stratification,” he holds a higher status than Dr. Ezekwesili, citing his role as a sitting Senator and a “global figure” who has previously chaired a World Bank program in Nigeria.

Nwaebonyi expressed his discontent at what he perceived as Ezekwesili’s lack of respect for him, stating, “I am a Senator of the Republic; by social traffic, I am higher than her. She was a Minister, but a Senator is bigger than a Minister. She is supposed to respect me.”

During the exchange, Nwaebonyi also took exception to being called a “disgrace” and a “holigan” by Ezekwesili, emphasizing that such remarks were inappropriate for someone of her stature. “Respect is earned,” he said, stressing that his reaction was a response to the disrespect shown by Ezekwesili.

The altercation began when Dr. Ezekwesili told Nwaebonyi to “shut up” during the proceedings, an action she later admitted publicly. Nwaebonyi, who had been provoked by her comments, argued that her actions were disrespectful and uncalled for, especially considering her position as a former government official. He also questioned why it took nearly two years for the allegations of sexual harassment to be brought to light, claiming that the accusations were politically motivated following a change in committee assignments.

The hearing, which was meant to address the petition made by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was eventually adjourned after Nwaebonyi’s defense was heard. The committee ruled that they could not continue with the hearing due to the fact that the matter was already sub judice—pending in court—and that the petitioner was unable to proceed with the case.

While the dispute between Nwaebonyi and Ezekwesili dominated the headlines, Nwaebonyi expressed no regret for his actions, stating, “I was not provoked. Respect is not commanded, it’s earned.” He further alleged that the accusations against Akpabio were part of a calculated effort by Akpoti-Uduaghan to discredit him and the Senate President, claiming that the whole situation stemmed from her dissatisfaction over a committee chairmanship.

In the midst of the ongoing controversy, Nwaebonyi took a strong stance against what he described as an attack on the Senate’s reputation. He dismissed concerns about the public perception of the Nigerian Senate, insisting that his actions were justified, and challenged those calling for disciplinary measures against him to instead hold Dr. Ezekwesili accountable for her actions.

“She has no right to talk to me in that way. Let them discipline her first,” Nwaebonyi said, emphasizing his readiness to protect the truth and the integrity of the Senate.