JUST IN: Akpabio Bows to Pressure, Apologizes to Natasha Akpoti Over ‘Night Club’ Remark

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has issued a public apology to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central for a remark he made that sparked controversy. Akpabio had previously suggested that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s behavior was akin to that of a “nightclub.”

The incident occurred last week when Akpoti-Uduaghan spoke without being formally recognized by the Senate President. This follows a recent incident where Ireti Kingibe, senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was also dismissed when she protested her exclusion from national affairs.

In his apology delivered on the Senate floor on Tuesday, Akpabio expressed regret for his comments and emphasized that he would never intentionally denigrate any woman. He revealed that both his and his wife’s phones had been inundated with calls and messages, many of which were insulting.

“I will not intentionally denigrate any woman and I always pray that God will uplift women,” Akpabio stated.

Addressing Akpoti-Uduaghan directly, he said, “Distinguished Senator Natasha, I want to apologize to you. The interest shown on 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. Social media handlers should practice with decorum. We won’t out of anger regulate social media.”

Akpabio also refuted social media allegations claiming he has “numerous girlfriends,” asserting, “I have only one wife and she is enough for me.”

The apology follows criticism from the Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), a women’s advocacy group, which condemned Akpabio for his perceived disrespect towards female senators.