Popular Nigerian activist, Omoyele Sowore, has praised former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, for standing her ground during a heated exchange with Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi. The confrontation, which was captured in a viral video, has sparked widespread reactions across the country.
The altercation took place on Tuesday during an Ethics Committee hearing at the National Assembly. The hearing was centered on allegations of sexual harassment involving the suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. During the session, Ezekwesili and Senator Nwebonyi, who represents Ebonyi North Senatorial District, engaged in a verbal clash that quickly escalated.
Speaking on Channels TV, Senator Nwebonyi explained that the confrontation began when Ezekwesili allegedly referred to him as a “hooligan” and told him to “shut up.” This statement reportedly triggered the heated exchange, leading to an intense back-and-forth between the two public figures.
Reacting to the incident, Sowore took to his official Facebook page on Wednesday, condemning Nwebonyi’s actions and questioning the relevance of the Nigerian Senate. According to the activist, the lawmaker’s behavior was an example of why the Senate should be scrapped.
“Look at this individual’s behavior and explain to me why the Nigerian Senate should not be scrapped, as it is clearly a waste of resources to send unproductive representatives to a rubber-stamp assembly. I commend Oby Ezekwesili for not backing down,” Sowore wrote.
The viral video has continued to generate debate among Nigerians, with many supporting Ezekwesili’s firm stance against what they perceive as disrespectful conduct within the legislative chamber. Some critics argue that the Senate, as an institution, should uphold decorum and professionalism in handling sensitive matters such as the ongoing investigation into sexual harassment allegations.
Ezekwesili, known for her outspoken advocacy on governance and human rights issues, has consistently challenged political figures on matters of accountability and leadership. Her recent encounter with Senator Nwebonyi further cements her reputation as a fearless advocate willing to confront those she believes undermine democratic principles.
Meanwhile, Senator Nwebonyi has defended his actions, insisting that he was merely responding to what he considered an unwarranted attack on his character. However, public sentiment appears to lean in favor of Ezekwesili, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over the conduct of some members of the National Assembly.
As the debate continues, Sowore’s remarks have reignited conversations about the effectiveness and relevance of the Nigerian Senate in addressing national issues. While some believe that legislative reforms are necessary, others argue that the entire institution requires a complete overhaul to ensure better representation and governance.
The clash between Ezekwesili and Nwebonyi serves as a reminder of the growing demand for accountability and professionalism within Nigeria’s political landscape. Whether this incident will lead to any institutional changes remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly added fuel to the ongoing discourse on governance and leadership in the country.
