Ezekwesili vs Nwaebonyi: Over 350 Women Groups Demand Senator’s Public Apology

•Say they won’t accept such disrespect

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

A coalition of over 350 women groups has condemned the attack on former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, by Senator Peter Nwaebonyi on March 25, during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges.

The coalition said Nwaebonyi’s use of highly insulting and vulgar language against Ezekwesili, a respected leader and an invaluable asset to the country, was unacceptable and must not go unaddressed.

A statement by their media and communications officer, Ms. Caroline Osang, on behalf of the 350 groups, said the hearing, which was meant to deliberate on critical issues related to justice and governance, degenerated into a spectacle of disrespect and arrogance by the senator.

It stated that instead of maintaining the dignity and seriousness that the senate hearing demanded, Nwaebonyi opted to derail the proceedings, mocking the petitioners and disregarding the importance of the matters at hand.

The coalition said such condescending and dismissive rhetoric was an open attempt to silence the voices of women advocating justice, saying it is wholly unbecoming of a public official.

The statement said, “We, as a coalition, demand an immediate and unequivocal apology from Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwaebonyi for his actions, and we call upon the senate committee members present to take responsibility for failing to call him to order during the hearing.

“The failure of the committee to intervene not only condoned this egregious behaviour, but also perpetuated a culture of disregard for women’s voices in the political space. This cannot and will not be tolerated.

“Senator Nwaebonyi’s actions were not simply a difference of opinion; they were an intentional and calculated attempt to undermine the credibility of women speaking out in pursuit of justice.

“This is an example of the abuse of power, rooted in gender-based violence, that seeks to intimidate and silence women who dare to challenge the status quo.

“It is a stark reminder of how women continue to be marginalized in political and public discourse. Senator Nwaebonyi’s behaviour reflects an alarming disregard for the values of fairness, dignity, and respect.”

Osang further stressed, “Oby Ezekwesili is the former Minister of Education and currently the Chairperson of Women Political Leaders (WPL), who always stood firm in defending the right of women to be heard and respected in all spaces, particularly in politics.

“We will not allow this assault on our dignity to stand. Senator Nwaebonyi’s actions were an affront not only to Oby Ezekwesili but to every woman who believes in fairness, equality, and justice. Women across the country are watching, and we will not accept this disrespect.”