Calls for Apology Grow as Women’s Coalition Condemns Senator Nwebonyi’s Attack on Oby Ezekwesili
A coalition of over 350 women’s groups is demanding a public apology from Senator Peter Nwebonyi of Ebonyi North District for his verbal attack on former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili.
Outrage Over Disrespectful Remarks
In a statement issued on Thursday, the coalition criticized Nwebonyi’s remarks as “disrespectful and vulgar,” accusing the Senate Committee members of failing to hold him accountable. They described his comments as an attempt to silence women’s voices, calling his behavior unacceptable for a public official.
“This conduct is not just an insult to Oby Ezekwesili but to all women who stand for fairness, justice, and equality,” the coalition stated.
Women’s Groups Stand in Solidarity
The coalition includes major organizations such as ActionAid Nigeria, Baobab for Women’s Human Rights, Bring Back Our Girls, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Women Environmental Programme (WEP), Stand to End Rape (STER), Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ), and Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC).
Background on the Controversy
The issue arose during a Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges hearing on March 25, where Nwebonyi made dismissive remarks toward Ezekwesili. The session was convened to review a petition by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Nedanwen Imasuen, seeking his disbarment over alleged misconduct.
During the hearing, Nwebonyi reportedly mocked the petitioners, calling their efforts a “waste of time” and claiming he was “ready to be a witness for the Senate President.” His comments sparked widespread condemnation, with women’s groups denouncing them as part of a larger pattern of disrespect and marginalization of women in public life.
Disappointment in Senate Committee
The coalition also criticized the Senate Committee for failing to intervene, arguing that their inaction signaled approval of Nwebonyi’s behavior.
“The committee’s failure to address this conduct reinforces a culture of disregard for women in politics,” they stated.
Praise for Oby Ezekwesili
The coalition commended Ezekwesili, describing her as a “national leader and global treasure” known for her contributions to governance and women’s empowerment.
“As a former minister and Chairperson of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Ezekwesili has always championed justice and women’s inclusion in leadership. Any attempt to undermine her is an attack on the dignity of Nigerian women,” the statement read.
Fight Against Systemic Marginalization
The coalition emphasized that this incident reflects the broader issue of systemic marginalization of women in Nigerian politics. They equated Nwebonyi’s behavior to gender-based violence, stating that it was meant to intimidate and silence women who challenge the status quo.
“Senator Nwebonyi’s remarks represent an abuse of power rooted in gender-based violence. His actions seek to suppress women’s voices and undermine equality,” they added.
Demand for Accountability
Women’s groups vowed to keep pushing for accountability, insisting that the Senate must not ignore the incident. They reaffirmed their commitment to defending women who advocate for justice and will continue to challenge any form of disrespect or discrimination in political spaces.
