A Scathing Rebuke
Former Minister of Education, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has launched a scathing attack on the Nigerian Senate, accusing its members of being “nation-destroyers” for their handling of the sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Ezekwesili criticized the Senate for blocking an independent investigation into the matter and instead engaging in a smear campaign against Akpoti-Uduaghan. Her comments come in the wake of a report by The Economist, which highlighted the harsh conditions Nigerian women face in politics.
The Allegations and Senate’s Response
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim that has sparked widespread controversy. However, the Senate has refused to allow an independent investigation into the allegations. Instead, Akpoti-Uduaghan was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, which recommended a six-month suspension and other punitive measures against her.
Ezekwesili described the Senate’s actions as a “Kangaroo process of injustice,” arguing that the committee’s investigation was biased and violated constitutional principles. She also accused the Senate of attempting to bribe Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents to support a recall process against her, a move that has been largely rejected by the people.
Ezekwesili’s Stinging Critique
In a series of posts on social media, Ezekwesili expressed her outrage at the Senate’s conduct, describing it as a disgrace to Nigeria and its citizens. “Here’s @TheEconomist in yet another post on the shame brought upon Nigeria and Nigerians by @Senator_Akpabio @NGRSenate by their brazen refusal to provide an opportunity for an independent investigation and open/transparent public hearing by a Specially Constituted Committee of the Nigerian Senate,” she wrote.
She further criticized the Senate for focusing on punishing Akpoti-Uduaghan rather than addressing her allegations. “Rather than reverse that illegality and focus on her petition for sexual harassment, the Senate and Senate President have instead embarked on a smear campaign against Senator @NatashaAkpoti,” Ezekwesili stated.
The former minister did not mince words in her assessment of the Senate, calling its members “a bunch of nation-destroyers” who behave with impunity. “They behave with impunity because they have taken a chokehold on our democracy,” she said.
The Bigger Picture: A Culture of Impunity
Ezekwesili’s comments highlight a broader issue of impunity and lack of accountability within Nigeria’s political system. The Senate’s refusal to investigate serious allegations of sexual harassment and its subsequent targeting of the accuser reflect a troubling pattern of silencing dissent and protecting powerful figures.
This case also sheds light on the challenges faced by women in Nigerian politics, as highlighted by The Economist. The media outlet described Nigerian politics as a “nasty place for women,” pointing to the sexual harassment scandal as evidence of the systemic barriers and discrimination women encounter in the political arena.
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A Call to Action
Ezekwesili called on Nigerians to stand up against the Senate’s actions and demand accountability. “Well, it is time for all reasonable Citizens to stand up to them and all the way before they totally destroy whatever is left of Nigeria,” she urged.
Her statement serves as a rallying cry for citizens to hold their leaders accountable and fight for justice, transparency, and equality in governance. It also underscores the need for systemic reforms to address the culture of impunity and create a more inclusive and equitable political system.
A Test for Nigeria’s Democracy
The controversy surrounding the allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Senate’s response is a test for Nigeria’s democracy. Ezekwesili’s bold critique highlights the urgent need for accountability, transparency, and justice in the country’s political institutions.
As the nation grapples with these issues, the voices of citizens and leaders like Ezekwesili will be crucial in driving change and ensuring that Nigeria’s democracy remains strong and resilient. The time has come for Nigerians to demand better from their leaders and work toward a future where justice and equality prevail.
