A dramatic confrontation unfolded at a recent Senate Committee hearing as former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, clashed with Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi of Ebonyi North Senatorial District. The heated exchange occurred during deliberations on a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The Heated Exchange
The session, held on March 25, 2025, took a fiery turn when Senator Nwebonyi attempted to proceed with his submission, suggesting that the petitioners were unprepared. Ezekwesili, who was present at the hearing, sharply interjected, telling him to “shut up.” This remark provoked an immediate reaction from Nwebonyi, who fired back, calling her “an insult to womanhood” and stating that she “could never be a senator.”
Ezekwesili’s Response
Following the altercation, Ezekwesili defended her words, asserting that she was proud of her reaction. She criticized the Senate’s handling of the petition, accusing them of prioritizing their internal rules over constitutional provisions. According to her, this approach denied the petitioner a fair hearing.
Nwebonyi Stands His Ground
In response, Senator Nwebonyi justified his remarks, insisting that he had no regrets about the exchange. He argued that he was compelled to react after being told to “shut up” and labeled a “hooligan” by Ezekwesili.
Senate Dismisses the Petition
Despite the heated arguments, the Senate Committee ultimately dismissed the petition, citing its pendency in court as the reason for not entertaining it. This decision has sparked further debate about the Senate’s commitment to upholding transparency and accountability.
The clash between Ezekwesili and Nwebonyi has since dominated media discussions, with many weighing in on the exchange. Was it an instance of standing up for justice, or a case of political grandstanding?
