The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has issued a public apology to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following comments he made during a plenary session last week. Akpabio had rebuked Akpoti-Uduaghan for speaking without his recognition, comparing the Senate to a “nightclub.”
His remarks sparked a backlash on social media, with various women’s groups accusing him of being sexist and disrespectful.
During Tuesday’s plenary, Akpabio apologized, stating, “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. The interest shown in social media shows that we have enemies. I felt I should tender a public apology to you. I do not mean any harm.”
He further said, “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.”
In addition to his apology, Akpabio addressed rumors circulating on social media about his personal life. He firmly denied the claims that he has “numerous girlfriends,” stating, “I have only one wife and she is enough for me.”