President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has issued a public apology to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following remarks he made during a plenary session last week.
The incident, which sparked widespread backlash on social media and drew criticism from various women’s groups, involved Akpabio telling Akpoti-Uduaghan that the Senate is not a “nightclub” after she attempted to speak without recognition.
Addressing the issue during Tuesday’s plenary, the Senate President expressed regret for his comments, emphasizing that he did not intend to denigrate any woman. “I will not intentionally denigrate any woman and I always pray that God will uplift women. Distinguished Senator Natasha, I want to apologize to you,” he stated.
Acknowledging the social media uproar, Akpabio suggested that it highlighted underlying animosities. “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,” he said.
He also addressed claims circulating online about his personal life, categorically denying accusations of having “numerous girlfriends.” Additionally, the former Governor called for responsible use of social media, stating, “Social media handlers should practice with decorum. We won’t out of anger regulate social media.”
The apology comes in response to calls from women’s advocacy groups for the senator to retract his comments and acknowledge their sexist undertones.
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