Akpabio issues apology to Natasha Akpoti for ‘night club’ comment
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has apologized to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central for remarks he made last week, asking her not to speak as though she were in a “night club.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan had spoken without being recognized by the Senate President.
This incident follows a previous one where Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was also silenced when she protested her exclusion from matters concerning the nation’s capital.
Speaking in the red chamber on Tuesday, Akpabio asserted that he would never purposefully disrespect any woman. The senate president mentioned that both his and his wife’s phones have been inundated with calls and text messages, many of which contained insults.
“I have no intention to denigrate any woman, and I consistently pray for God to uplift women,” he stated.
“Distinguished Senator Natasaha, I want to apologise to you.
“The interest shown In the social media shows that we have enemies. 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
“Social media handlers should practice with decorum. We won’t out of anger regulate social media.”
Akpabio also denied social media posting claims that he has “numerous girlfriends”.
“I have only one wife and she is enough for me,” he said.
On Monday, the Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), a women’s advocacy group, criticized Akpabio for his reported lack of respect towards female senators.
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at Neptune Prime.
