Obi Ezekwesili Stands Firm: Natasha Deserves A Fair Hearing, No Matter What

Ex-Minister Ezekwesili Calls Out the Senate: Accountability Matters

Let’s be real for a moment. Obiageli Ezekwesili, the former Minister of Education, isn’t one to shy away from tough conversations. Recently, she made it crystal clear that Nigerians are craving accountability from the Senate, especially in light of the explosive allegations of sexual harassment brought forward by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. This isn’t just a political issue; it’s a matter of justice and integrity in our nation’s democracy.

Naija News is reporting that Ezekwesili believes the Senate must take responsibility and ensure that the process surrounding these allegations is transparent and fair. She made this point loud and clear during an interview with News Central, where she recounted a heated clash she had with the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, during the Ethics and Privileges Committee hearing. Her message was simple yet powerful: the Senate must protect its integrity by upholding transparency.

Why Transparency Matters in This Case

Ezekwesili emphasized that lawmakers have a responsibility to set an example, not to break the very laws they’re supposed to uphold. She warned that failing to act with integrity in this situation could spell disaster for Nigeria’s democracy. This isn’t just about Natasha’s case; it’s about the Senate’s role as the highest lawmaking body in the country. If they dodge accountability now, what does that say about their commitment to justice and fairness?

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Her exact words were nothing short of a wake-up call: “Rather than dodge this matter, the Senate, as a public institution and the highest lawmaking organ in our democracy, must listen to the citizens. They’re demanding accountability. They want to see that their leaders are acting with integrity. The Senate needs to realize that this issue has already severely damaged their credibility. If they continue to use Senate rules as a way to avoid accountability, they’re essentially telling us that they’re the ones ruining our democracy.”

She continued, driving the point home: “How can the very people entrusted to uphold democratic principles, norms, and constitutional provisions become the ones tearing it all down? It’s unacceptable. The lawbreakers cannot be the ones breaking the law. If they do, it sets a dangerous precedent for our nation.”

A Call to Action for the Senate

In a world where trust in institutions is already fragile, the Senate has a golden opportunity to restore faith in its ability to do the right thing. By granting Natasha a fair hearing and ensuring transparency throughout the process, they can show Nigerians that they are committed to justice and accountability. Anything less would not only harm Natasha but also undermine the credibility of the entire institution.

Ezekwesili’s voice is one of reason and urgency. She’s reminding us all that democracy is a delicate balance, and it requires everyone—especially those in positions of power—to act with integrity. As the nation watches closely, the Senate has a chance to prove that they’re more than just lawmakers; they’re guardians of justice and fairness.