Former Nigerian Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has expressed satisfaction with her recent confrontation with Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi during a Senate hearing. The heated exchange occurred during discussions on sexual harassment allegations involving suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Ezekwesili’s interjection, “Can you shut up?” directed at Nwebonyi, sparked a back-and-forth, with the senator reportedly calling her “an insult to womanhood” and insisting she would “never be a senator.”
Reacting to the incident, Ezekwesili stated that she was pleased with the encounter as it brought to light the challenges women face in Nigerian politics. She emphasized that such public confrontations help expose deep-rooted patriarchal attitudes and encourage conversations about gender equality. According to her, the exchange was a clear example of how women are often dismissed or disrespected when voicing their opinions in governance.
The altercation has since ignited widespread discussions on social media and among civil rights groups, with many praising Ezekwesili for standing her ground. Some see it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle for gender inclusivity in leadership. Others, however, argue that both parties could have handled the situation more diplomatically. Regardless, the incident has amplified calls for a more respectful and inclusive political environment.
As conversations around gender representation in Nigerian politics continue, Ezekwesili remains vocal about the need for systemic reforms. She believes that women must not only be included in decision-making but also be treated with the same respect as their male counterparts. Her encounter with Nwebonyi, while controversial, has reinforced the urgency of ensuring that women’s voices are not just heard but valued in governance.
