PeakNews Online
Abuja, Nigeria – Senate President Godswill Akpabio has issued a public apology to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following remarks he made last week that sparked a backlash on social media.
During a plenary session last week, Akpabio had admonished Akpoti-Uduaghan for speaking without being recognized, likening the Senate to a “nightclub.” The comment was met with criticism, particularly from women’s groups who accused him of being sexist and disrespectful.
In his apology during Tuesday’s plenary session, Akpabio expressed regret and assured that he did not intend to denigrate women. “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,” Akpabio stated. He acknowledged the social media uproar and noted the presence of “enemies” who may exploit such incidents.
Akpabio also addressed the conduct of social media users, urging them to focus on constructive discourse. “Social media handlers should practice with decorum. We won’t out of anger regulate social media,” he added.
