By HeapNews
A coalition of over 350 women’s groups has condemned what it described as a “disgraceful and unacceptable” attack on former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, by Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi during a Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges hearing on March 25, 2025.
The coalition is demanding a public apology from Senator Nwebonyi and members of the Senate Committee for failing to call him to order when he allegedly used “insulting and vulgar” language toward Ezekwesili.
“Women will not accept such disrespect toward her,” the coalition stated in a joint release signed by representatives of the organizations, including Action Aid Nigeria, Women Political Leaders (WPL), and the 100 Women Lobby Group.
A ‘Spectacle of Disrespect’
According to the coalition, the hearing, meant to address critical issues of justice and governance, was derailed when Senator Nwebonyi mocked Ezekwesili and dismissed the concerns raised as “unserious” and a “waste of time.” The senator reportedly stated that he was “ready to be a witness for the Senate President since we were not serious.”
“Such condescending and dismissive rhetoric is an open attempt to silence the voices of women advocating for justice,” the statement said.
The coalition argued that Nwebonyi’s actions were not just a difference of opinion but a deliberate effort to undermine women speaking out in political spaces.
“This is an example of the abuse of power, rooted in gender-based violence, that seeks to intimidate and silence women who dare to challenge the status quo,” the statement continued.
Call for Accountability
The coalition has called on the Senate Ethics Committee to take immediate action against Senator Nwebonyi, stressing that their failure to reprimand him during the hearing signals a culture of impunity.
“We demand that the Senate Committee members take responsibility for failing to call him to order and issue a public apology, not only to Oby Ezekwesili but also to the women of Nigeria, whose voices are too often ignored,” the coalition said.
The groups also warned that this incident will not be overlooked.
“We will continue to demand justice, equality, and accountability. Let it be clear that we, the women of this nation, will not allow any further disrespect to go unchecked.”
Dr. Ezekwesili, a globally recognized advocate for women’s rights and governance reforms, has yet to issue a statement on the matter. However, the coalition insists that the senator’s words were an affront not just to her but to all Nigerian women.
“Our resolve is stronger than ever: ‘This Injustice Shall Not Be Sustained’—and we add, ‘NEVER,’” the statement concluded.
Next Steps
With mounting pressure from women’s rights organizations, political observers say the Senate may be forced to address the issue publicly in the coming days.
Senator Nwebonyi and the Senate Ethics Committee have yet to respond to the coalition’s demands.