Press Release
The Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF) strongly condemns the appalling conduct of Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi during the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions hearing on Tuesday, where he verbally attacked and insulted a former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili.
It is unacceptable that in a democratic institution, like the National Assembly, which is meant to represent the people and uphold the principles of justice, a distinguished Senator can hurl insults at a national treasure and rights advocate like Dr. Ezekwesili. She was subjected to outright verbal abuse by Senator Nwaebonyi whose use of derogatory language, including calling her “a fool” and an “insult to womanhood,” reflects not only a deep-seated disregard for women’s voices in governance but also an increasing troubling pattern of hostility towards those who demand accountability.
The NWTF views this incident as part of a broader culture of misogyny and silencing of women in political and public spaces. Women have every right to participate in national discourse, demand justice, and hold public officials accountable without fear of intimidation or attack. Senator Nwaebonyi’s behavior is a stark reminder of the systemic barriers women continue to face in leadership and governance. Verbal abuse does constitute violence against a person under the VAPP Act, 2015. This act is reprehensible and in poor taste.
We stand in full solidarity with Dr. Ezekwesili and all women who courageously speak truth to power. We urge Senator Nwaebonyi to issue an unreserved apology to Dr. Ezekwesili for his unethical and unprofessional conduct. The Nigerian Senate must set a precedent that ensures respect, civility, and gender equity in all its proceedings.
Furthermore, we urge all stakeholders—including civil society organizations, women’s rights groups, and concerned Nigerians—to remain vigilant and push back against any attempt to normalize such disgraceful behavior in our society.
Brenda Anugwom
CEO,
Nigerian Women Trust Fund
