The recent Senate Committee hearing on the sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio has ignited a firestorm of controversy, exposing deep-seated issues of gender bias, senatorial conduct, and the struggle for accountability within Nigeria's political landscape. At the heart of the storm are former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, and Ebonyi North Senator, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, whose heated exchange has become a flashpoint for national debate.

The incident unfolded during a session of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, convened to address a petition filed by Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment. Ezekwesili, accompanied by Zubairu Yakubu (who signed the petition) and legal counsel Abiola Akiyode, attended the hearing as a witness. However, the proceedings quickly devolved into a shouting match after Senator Nwebonyi, representing Akpabio, interjected, claiming the petitioners were unserious and that he was ready to proceed.

Ezekwesili, incensed by what she perceived as an attempt to stifle her testimony, retorted, "Can you shut up?" This seemingly innocuous phrase triggered an explosive response from Nwebonyi, who unleashed a tirade against the former minister, questioning her qualifications and denigrating her womanhood. "You can never be a senator. You are an insult to womanhood," Nwebonyi reportedly exclaimed.

The clash has since sparked widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians decrying Nwebonyi's behavior as disrespectful and misogynistic. Ezekwesili, however, has defended her actions, stating that the incident has exposed the challenges women face in a patriarchal society. In an interview with Arise Television, she admitted to telling Nwebonyi to "shut up," but argued that his derogatory remarks and attempts to silence her justified her response.

During an appearance on Channels Television's Sunrise Daily, Ezekwesili expressed satisfaction with how the exchange unfolded, saying it brought long-overdue attention to gender-based discrimination. She asserted that the incident highlighted the historic attitude towards voices, particularly those of women, who dare to challenge the status quo or demand public accountability.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator at the center of the sexual harassment allegations, has also weighed in on the controversy, apologizing to Ezekwesili for the insults she endured. In a post on X, Akpoti-Uduaghan commended Ezekwesili's courage and integrity, acknowledging that the former minister took the insults on behalf of all women.

The Senate, however, has dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan's petition against Akpabio, citing ongoing court proceedings related to the matter. This decision has further fueled public outrage, with many questioning the Senate's commitment to addressing sexual harassment allegations within its ranks.

The clash between Ezekwesili and Nwebonyi has not only exposed the raw nerves surrounding gender dynamics in Nigerian politics, but has also raised serious questions about the conduct of senators and the fairness of the Senate's internal processes. As the nation grapples with the fallout from this incident, calls for accountability and reform are growing louder, with many demanding a more transparent and equitable system that protects the rights of all citizens, regardless of gender or political affiliation.