Senate President Godswill Akpabio has tendered apologies to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Senator representing Kogi central, over some derogatory remarks he made towards her.
Recall that WOMANIFESTO, a coalition of over 300 women rights groups had on Sunday called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to issue a proper apology on the Senate floor, mirroring the manner in which he previously insulted female senators.
Senator Akpabio had shut down Senator Natasha using the words ‘ this is not a nightclub ‘. An expression which they described as derogatory. They further said he had also spoken in a condescending manner to Senator Ireti Kingibe while resolving an issue between her and the Minister of FCT Nyesom Wike.
On Tuesday, while addressing the Senate, Akpabio expressed regret over his previous remarks, emphasizing that he would never intentionally denigrate any woman. He acknowledged the backlash he received, stating that both his phone and his wife’s have been inundated with calls and text messages, many of which were insults.
“I will not intentionally denigrate any woman and I always pray that God will uplift women,” Akpabio said. “Distinguished Senator Natasha, I want to apologize to you.”
He noted the widespread interest on social media, which he interpreted as evidence of having “enemies,” and stated, “I felt I should tender a public apology to you. I do not mean any harm. People should concentrate on things that will move this country forward.”
Akpabio also cautioned social media users to practice with decorum, adding, “We won’t out of anger regulate social media.”
In response to allegations circulating on social media, Akpabio denied having “numerous girlfriends,” asserting, “I have only one wife and she is enough for me.”
This apology followed criticism from WOMANIFESTO who had earlier in a widely circulated press statement chided Akpabio for his alleged disrespect towards female senators.
In the press statement released on July 20th, Womanifesto condemned Akpabio’s “condescending manner” towards female senators, particularly his derogatory outburst against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan during a plenary session on July 18th. The coalition, representing over 300 women’s rights groups, demanded an immediate and unequivocal apology from Akpabio, describing his comments as reflective of a deeply rooted misogynistic attitude that has no place in society or governmental institutions.
Womanifesto’s statement highlighted the persistent trend of gender discrimination and verbal harassment within Nigeria’s political institutions and stressed the need for leaders to exemplify the highest standards of conduct and respect towards all, regardless of gender.
The coalition’s push for a formal apology during a Senate session underscores the significance of accountability and respect within political discourse, particularly towards women who continue to face substantial challenges in the quest for equality and representation.
