According to a report from TheCable, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, a senator representing Ebonyi North, has stated that he holds a higher position in status compared to Oby Ezekwesili, a former minister of education.
Nwaebonyi also expressed remorse over the language he used when addressing Ezekwesili during a Senate ethics committee hearing.
The exchange occurred during deliberations on a new petition filed by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended senator representing Kogi Central.
Tensions rose during the hearing when Ezekwesili asked Nwaebonyi to stop speaking, which led to a heated exchange.
The Ebonyi senator had earlier criticized Ezekwesili for allegedly calling him a derogatory term and instructing a serving senator to be silent.
In an appearance on Arise TV, Nwaebonyi, who serves as the deputy chief whip of the Senate, admitted that his words were inappropriate, especially in light of Ezekwesili’s age.
Ezekwesili, who is 61 years old, previously served as the minister of solid minerals and later as the minister of education under former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“I must also say that I regret my choice of words towards her. She is old enough to be my mother,” Nwaebonyi said.
When asked about whether such incidents could discourage women from participating in politics, Nwaebonyi defended his stance, emphasizing his support for women’s involvement in governance.
Nwaebonyi also highlighted what he believes to be the hierarchical difference between senators and ministers.
He stated that, as a senator, he occupies a more senior position within the governmental structure.
Later on Tuesday, Ezekwesili admitted that she had asked the senator to stop speaking, explaining that it was a response to the panel’s restriction on allowing both parties to address the matter.
She also remarked that Nwaebonyi’s reaction exemplified the lack of decorum displayed by some public officials in the country.