Tensions flared in the Senate on Tuesday during the hearing of a petition from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as a heated confrontation unfolded between former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili and Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi.
The altercation took place during a session of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which was reviewing Senator Natasha’s petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Ezekwesili had joined Abiola Akiode, the counsel for Senator Natasha, and petitioner Zubairu Yakubu at the hearing.
The situation escalated when Yakubu attempted to speak while the Committee Chairman, Neda Imaseun, was addressing the panel. Yakubu was instructed to mute his microphone, which led to Ezekwesili stepping in. Senator Nwebonyi, a witness for Akpabio, then interrupted, triggering a tense exchange between him and Ezekwesili.
Ezekwesili calmly told Nwebonyi to compose himself, a remark that sparked an angry outburst from the Senator, who accused her of disrespect.
The heated argument disrupted the proceedings until order was eventually restored. Imaseun concluded the session by noting that the case was under judicial review, bringing the hearing to a close.
“Therefore, this matter is closed here at the senate, and it is adjourned sine die,” he said.
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