Former Minister of Education and renowned public accountability advocate, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has responded forcefully to recent criticisms following her support for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has petitioned the Nigerian Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, for alleged sexual harassment.
In a powerful statement shared across her official social media platforms, Ezekwesili reaffirmed her “unwavering, sacrificial support” for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, lambasting what she described as a “brigade of irresponsible politicians” determined to silence the lawmaker through intimidation and falsehoods.
“Once again, Senator @NatashaAkpoti, You. Will. Never. Walk. Alone,” Ezekwesili wrote. “I see how my unwavering support for your cry for justice has sent your adversaries into a frenzy—resorting to desperate, laughable falsehoods.”
The former World Bank executive’s remarks come in the wake of a public call-out by Prof. Mgbeke, who criticized Ezekwesili’s support for the embattled senator. However, Ezekwesili dismissed the accusations, asserting that “no amount of money, not even all the wealth in every Central Bank in the world, can buy my convictions.”
She further emphasized the need for an independent investigation into the sexual harassment allegations leveled against Senate President Akpabio, insisting that the truth cannot be buried under institutional manipulation.
“We will continue to stand with you—demanding a fair hearing and an independent investigation into your petition against Senator Akpabio,” she declared.
Ezekwesili also used the moment to take a broader swipe at the Nigerian political elite, describing many in leadership as being driven by “corruption and greed,” and calling on Nigerians to remain committed to justice and accountability.
“They cannot fathom the concept of service because money and their belly are their gods,” she said.
